NHIA Chief Executive, Dr. Bernard Okoe-Boye, has revealed that President Akufo-Addo is passionate about integrating mental health coverage into the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) Benefit Package.
During a visit to the Western North Region, Dr. Okoe-Boye announced that plans are underway to make mental health treatment more affordable and accessible for individuals suffering from this condition.
Addressing the issue of copayments, which are illegal payments collected by some healthcare providers from NHIS members, Dr. Okoe-Boye stated that there has been a significant improvement in claims payments to credentialed healthcare service providers.
As a result, there is no longer any excuse for providers to demand copayments from patients.
Dr. Okoe-Boye highlighted the expansion of the NHIS Benefit Package, including the addition of the Free Elderly Healthcare policy for individuals aged 70 and above, coverage for four common childhood cancers, and the inclusion of the expensive breast cancer drug, Herceptin.
“Presently, we make monthly payments to service providers whose claims have been vetted and approved,” he said. “On July 31st, we paid an additional GH₵186 million to our hardworking credentialed healthcare providers, reducing the previous piled-up debt to just one month.”
“We have recently added the Free Elderly Healthcare policy for people 70 years and above, the four commonest childhood cancers, and a very expensive drug called Herceptin for breast cancer treatment.”
The Western North Regional Minister, Mr. Joojo Rocky Obeng, commended Dr. Okoe-Boye’s administration for the positive changes and transformation in the NHIS.
During a visit to the Omanhene of Sefwi Wiawso Traditional Council, Katakyie Kwasi Bumagama II, Dr. Okoe-Boye called for collective efforts to sustain the NHIS.
Katakyie Kwasi Bumagama II praised the NHIA Chief Executive’s leadership and encouraged the administration to continue its efforts to benefit the people.
The NHIA’s ultimate goal is to achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC) by 2030.
The Authority has undertaken various initiatives to contribute to the overall growth and development of the Ghanaian economy while ensuring healthcare access for all.