The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) is applauding President John Mahama’s decision to uncap the National Health Insurance Levy (NHIL) which essentially funds the health insurance scheme.
The president, delivering remarks at the National Prayer and Thanksgiving Service on Sunday had announced his government’s intent to uncap the NHIL to increase its funding and expand access to healthcare nationwide.
He was of the view that ridding the levy of the imposed limit will ensure “National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) can have sufficient funds to reimburse health service providers for the care that they provide to the public”.
In a press release backing the president’s announcement, the authority said welcomed the new policy, adding rake in substantial financial support.
It noted that it was profoundly grateful that President had kept his promise during the campaign to terminate the cap.
“By removing the budgetary cap, the government has demonstrated its unwavering commitment to strengthening Ghana’s healthcare system and ensuring sustainable funding for the NHIS.
“This bold move will significantly impact the Scheme’s growth and aspiration to attain Universal Health Coverage. It will enable the NHIA to expand coverage, settle claims promptly, improve service delivery, and ensure that every Ghanaian has access to quality and affordable healthcare regardless of socio-economic status,” it wrote in a five paragraph statement.
The National Health Insurance Levy (NHIL) is a tax on goods and services in Ghana that funds the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS). It is the largest source of revenue for the NHIS, accounting for over two-thirds of its total funds.
NHIA further expressed its commitment to work with stakeholders to “maximize the benefits of this critical intervention for the collective good” of the country.
