Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has announced a major upward review of tariffs paid to healthcare service providers under the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), describing the planned adjustment as a crucial step toward stabilising Ghana’s health financing system.
Speaking at the Government Accountability Series on Monday, the Minister said the current tariff structure has long been considered inadequate by healthcare providers, who argue that the rates do not reflect the true cost of delivering medical services.
“The tariffs we give to service providers have been deemed unrealistic. Beginning next year, we are increasing these tariffs by an average of 120%. I believe this is going to be a game changer,” Mr. Akandoh said.
The tariff increase, expected to take effect in 2025, forms part of wider reforms aimed at improving the sustainability of the NHIS, enhancing service quality, and ensuring that health facilities both public and private are adequately resourced to meet patient needs.
Mr. Akandoh said the adjustment will offer significant financial relief to providers, many of whom have raised concerns about operational pressures stemming from inflation, currency depreciation, and rising costs of medical supplies.
With improved reimbursement rates, he noted, facilities will be better positioned to invest in essential equipment, retain skilled staff, and expand services.
The Minister further highlighted gains in NHIS enrolment under the Mahama administration, stating that membership has increased from 18 million to 20 million people.
This represents approximately 60% of Ghana’s population and, according to him, reinforces the need for a financially robust insurance scheme capable of meeting the growing demand for healthcare.
Mr. Akandoh reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening the NHIS as a pillar of universal health coverage, ensuring that Ghanaians have access to affordable and quality healthcare without financial hardship.
