Medical Directors of health facilities in the Ahafo Region have lauded the leadership of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) for the prompt payment of claims in 2025.

According to them, the NHIA's timely payment of claims significantly improves the day-to-day administration of both public and private health institutions in the country.

Dr. Tsibo-Takyi, the Medical Director for the St. John of God Catholic Hospital in Duayaw-Nkwanta, noted that while the NHIS claims are not entirely sufficient to sustain the facilities, their timely payment is highly appreciated.

These observations were made by the Medical Directors on Monday at Hwediem in the Ahafo Region, during a stakeholder engagement meeting between the NHIA, credentialed facilities, and the Ghana Health Service in the region.

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The meeting provided a crucial platform for reflection, review, and renewal of collaborative commitment towards delivering quality and accessible healthcare to residents through the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).

Attendees included the Regional Director of Health Services, various District Directors of Health, Medical Superintendents of hospitals, and representatives of mission hospitals in the region.

Dr. James Ankomah, the Medical Director for Goaso Municipal Hospital, urged the NHIA to consider an upward adjustment of the various tariffs under the Scheme in the Ahafo Region, emphasizing that the current amounts received by facilities are woefully inadequate.

In his remarks, the Ahafo Acting Regional Director for the NHIA, George Mawuli, confirmed that health facilities have received payments up to May, with only a few institutions having exceptional cases.

He expressed optimism that the prompt payment of claims to facilities should translate into quality service provision for persons seeking healthcare in the Ahafo Region.

However, Mr. Mawuli also pointed out that some facilities continue to engage in illegal charges or "copayments" to clients, which he stated undermines the credibility of the NHIS and fosters mistrust among members.

He indicated that this practice is not only unethical but also a breach of their contractual agreements, asserting that the NHIA cannot allow such actions to persist.

The Acting Regional Director therefore called on all providers to immediately halt any form of unauthorized charges and adhere strictly to the NHIS tariffs and policies.

"In our efforts to increase transparency and client education, we are introducing the 'Pulpit System' where NHIS staff will be stationed at various credentialed facilities daily to educate clients on their rights, responsibilities, and benefits under the Scheme," he stated.

Mr. George Mawuli noted that this initiative will also serve as a feedback mechanism, ensuring real-time resolution of issues at the facility level, and urged "maximum cooperation to make this a success."

The Acting Regional Director emphasized that, as part of their operational calendar, the NHIA is entering a new cycle of credentialing and contract renewals. "We urge all providers to ensure their documentation is up to date and submitted promptly," Mr. George Mawuli stated.

He stressed that the NHIA is committed to offering a smooth and transparent process and expects the same level of professionalism and urgency from all facilities.

He reiterated that the success of the NHIS in the region is a shared responsibility, adding, "Let's work together in mutual respect and accountability to build a system that our clients can trust and rely on."