NHIA launches ‘80 Campaign’, financial reforms to achieve Universal Health Coverage

The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has unveiled the '80 Campaign', coupled with financial and digital reforms, to boost National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) enrollment and enhance access to high-quality healthcare. The campaign, under the slogan "From 70 to 80 - Let's Cover More", seeks to lift NHIS membership from its current 70% to 80% by year-end 2026. This effort includes enrolling new members, retaining existing ones and ensuring NHIS membership leads to access to quality healthcare.

To make the Scheme more sustainable and reflective of healthcare costs, NHIA has initiated a 50% hike in NHIS service tariffs to healthcare providers. The adjustment is rolled out in stages, aiming for full implementation by October 2026. The Authority warns that the tariff increase will be matched with a tougher crackdown on illegal co-payments demanded by healthcare facilities, as there are no co-payment policies under NHIS.

NHIA is also rapidly shifting towards monthly provider payments to guarantee that cardholders receive their entitled services without unauthorized charges.

To tackle claim irregularities, NHIA is introducing a digital system called One-Time Attendance Code (OTAC). This system verifies patient attendance before claims are reimbursed, predicted to validate 15% of current claims, potentially saving GH₵1 billion annually. The OTAC system is already being tested in the Ahafo and Western North regions before a nationwide launch.

NHIA has also contributed GH₵35.1 million to 107 districts through the Free Primary Healthcare (FPHC) programme, launched in April 2026. The programme delivers essential services like health screenings, maternal and child healthcare, and immunizations via Community-based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) compounds and health centres. This initiative aims to promote healthier lifestyles and early disease diagnosis, preventing costly complications, according to NHIA's CEO Dr Victor Asare Bampoe.

The NHIA has also transferred 13 staff to the Ghana Medical Trust Fund (GMTF) after a year-long secondment. These officers helped establish the Fund's operations during its initial stage. Dr Bampoe praised their commitment to improving healthcare delivery. These measures form part of NHIA's broader strategy to expand insurance coverage, enhance financial efficiency, and strive towards Universal Health Coverage in Ghana.