The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has suggested a 120 percent increase in health service tariffs to reduce the need for patients to pay directly when seeking hospital care. Acting Chief Executive Dr Victor Asare Bampoe announced the proposal during a television interview, explaining that it stems from a comprehensive review conducted by expert teams.
Under the law, the NHIA is required to review both service and medicine tariffs annually. While the medicines review has already been completed, the proposed adjustment of service fees is currently awaiting board approval before being submitted to the Minister of Health.
Dr Bampoe noted that current tariffs are unrealistic, leading to situations where patients are asked to cover costs themselves. He explained that healthcare providers have often cited low tariffs as the reason for requesting out-of-pocket payments.
The NHIA aims to shift from merely reimbursing claims to strategically purchasing health services, using government funds to influence outcomes and improve service delivery. This approach would allow the authority to set prices for medicines and services while driving overall healthcare quality.
The proposed tariff increase forms part of broader reforms to enhance universal health coverage in Ghana, focusing on extending access to all citizens, improving the range of services, and ensuring financial protection against medical costs. Dr Bampoe emphasized that the new tariffs would only take effect once approved by both the NHIA board and the Minister of Health, ensuring that patients receive care without bearing additional financial burdens.
