Researchers at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology are calling for increased sensitization on the NHIS mobile premium payment in the rural areas.

Their call is based on the outcome of research which found that those residing in urban areas are more likely to pay the NHIS premium with their mobile phones. 

Adopting financial inclusion for NHIS premium has made healthcare accessible for many.

The Mobile Renewal Service takes away the time-wasting periods and other inconveniences at NHIS District Offices when going for renewals. With a click of a few buttons, one is served.

In December, 2018, the National Health Insurance Scheme introduced an innovative method of membership renewal and premium payment through the mobile phone without any hassle.

The study therefore sought to answer the question, who uses and what makes them use their phones to renew and pay for NHIS premium?

This study solicited opinions from about 1,192 residents in the Kumasi Metropolis, Atwima Nwabiagya and Sekyere Central Districts of Ghana.

The research found those residing in urban areas like the Kumasi metropolis are more likely to pay the NHIS premium with the mobile phone.

“NHIS renewal rates are higher in urban areas than rural areas.

“Urban membership renewal centers may be more overcrowded than rural centres, hence the greater willingness of urban dwellers to use mobile phones for renewal,” the report stated.

What's more, individuals with senior high and tertiary education as well as informal employees were found to be more likely to engage in the uptake of the said mobile phone services.

“Those in the informal sector pay a premium and so the convenience of renewal by mobile phone could retain and even increase enrolment of workers from the informal sector who bring in new revenue,” explained, lead researcher, Joseph Marfo Boaheng.