Ghana's Health Minister, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, announced that the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) coverage has increased from 57% to approximately 70% in less than two years. This growth is attributed to measures introduced by the government to strengthen the scheme. The Minister made this statement at the Ministry of Health's Sector Update Engagement in Accra on October 7, 2026.
Minister Akandoh credited the increase in NHIS coverage to the government's decision to uncap the National Health Insurance Levy, which has led to a significant rise in funding. The levy increase has improved the financial capacity of the NHIS, enabling the government to enhance payments to healthcare providers. This move aims to reduce delays in settling claims owed to healthcare facilities and ensure providers have the necessary resources to continue serving NHIS beneficiaries.
The Minister reported that funding for the NHIS has increased substantially, rising from GH¢6.5 billion in 2024 to GH¢9.8 billion in 2025. This increase has allowed the government to raise payments to healthcare providers by an average of 50%. The adjustment is part of the government's efforts to strengthen the NHIS and make healthcare more accessible to Ghanaians without placing unnecessary financial burdens on beneficiaries.
Minister Akandoh emphasized that improving the financial position of the NHIS and ensuring timely payments to service providers are crucial to maintaining the quality and accessibility of healthcare. The government's interventions aim to enhance the overall healthcare experience for NHIS beneficiaries. By strengthening the NHIS, the government hopes to increase healthcare accessibility and reduce financial burdens on citizens.
The NHIS coverage increase is a significant achievement for the Mahama government, which has prioritized healthcare as a key area of focus. The government's efforts to strengthen the NHIS have been ongoing, with a focus on improving funding, healthcare infrastructure, and service delivery. The Minister's announcement highlights the progress made so far and the potential for further growth.
The increase in NHIS coverage is expected to have a positive impact on healthcare outcomes in Ghana. With more citizens having access to healthcare services, the government hopes to reduce healthcare disparities and improve overall health outcomes. The Minister's statement underscores the government's commitment to ensuring that all Ghanaians have access to quality healthcare services.
The government's efforts to strengthen the NHIS have been welcomed by stakeholders, who recognize the importance of accessible and affordable healthcare. The NHIS has been instrumental in reducing financial barriers to healthcare access, and the government's initiatives aim to build on this progress. As the government continues to implement measures to improve the NHIS, citizens can expect to see further enhancements in healthcare services.
Key points
- NHIS coverage has increased from 57% to 70% in less than two years under the Mahama government.
- The government has increased funding for the NHIS, rising from GH¢6.5 billion in 2024 to GH¢9.8 billion in 2025.
- Payments to healthcare providers have been raised by an average of 50% to reduce delays in settling claims.
