The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has announced a renewed crackdown on illegal charges at health facilities across Ghana. This move addresses unauthorized fees levied on patients holding valid National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) cards, which undermine public trust.
Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Victor Asare Bampoe, stated that these illegal charges damage public confidence in the NHIS. They also hinder Ghana's efforts to achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC), a national goal for equitable healthcare access. The practice discourages both enrollment and renewal in the important health scheme.
This issue fits into Ghana’s broader health sector challenges and public finance management. The government is implementing the Free Primary Health Care programme, with the NHIS central to its success. Illegal charges have historically been a major factor affecting public perception of the NHIS, despite its broad coverage of services.
Dr. Bampoe delivered his warning at the 2026 Christian Health Association of Ghana (CHAG) Annual Conference in Koforidua. He emphasized, "Illegal charges remain a major concern." He added, "Wherever that happens, it does great damage." He confirmed that the problem is widespread, affecting various categories of healthcare providers, not just public hospitals.
The NHIA chief called for stronger collaboration between the Authority and healthcare providers, especially CHAG. CHAG is a significant provider of health services in Ghana. Dr. Bampoe urged improved reporting mechanisms, stricter enforcement of existing regulations, and greater accountability. He stressed that protecting the integrity of the NHIS requires collective effort from regulators, providers, and the public.
Facility managers must ensure staff fully understand the NHIS benefit package. They must also comply strictly with the scheme's reimbursement guidelines. This will prevent patients from facing unauthorized payments. NHIS subscribers are encouraged to report any illegal charges through the Authority's official complaints channels. Every complaint will be investigated thoroughly.
The NHIA aims for full public confidence that using an NHIS card guarantees entitled services without unlawful payments. This renewed commitment comes as the government intensifies its efforts to expand primary healthcare access. Health sector stakeholders have long identified illegal charges as a critical barrier to effective healthcare delivery.
Patients have frequently reported being asked for additional payments. These payments are often for consultations, medicines, or laboratory investigations that the NHIS should cover. Addressing these issues is vital for the long-term sustainability and credibility of the National Health Insurance Scheme.