NHIS coverage rises to 70% after government uncaps levy – Health Minister

The Minister of Health in Ghana, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, announced a significant rise in the coverage of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), which has increased from 57% to approximately 70% in just over two years. This improvement is attributed to the government's initiatives to bolster the scheme, most notably the decision to lift the cap on the National Health Insurance Levy.

Addressing the Ministry of Health's Sector Update Engagement in Accra on Wednesday, October 7, Akandoh highlighted that this intervention has substantially increased the funding available for the NHIS. "We’re strengthening what we have come to meet. We took the NHIS from 57%; as I speak to you now, it’s about 70%. In a matter of less than two years," he stated.

Furthermore, Akandoh revealed that the government's financing for the NHIS has expanded from approximately GH¢6.5 billion in 2024 to GH¢9.8 billion in 2025, also due to measures implemented to enhance the scheme's funding. Alongside this increase in funding, the Health Minister reported a 50% rise in payments to healthcare providers, aimed at mitigating delays in claim settlements and ensuring continuous healthcare services for NHIS members.

These measures are part of a broader strategy by the government to reinforce the health insurance system and enhance access to healthcare services for all Ghanaians. Akandoh emphasized that bolstering funding and improving payments to service providers are essential for sustaining the NHIS and ensuring that beneficiaries can receive healthcare without facing financial constraints.