Health Minister Clears GH¢603M in Claims
Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh announced on July 18, 2025, during the Government Accountability Series that the government disbursed GH¢1.38 billion to National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) providers in the first half of 2025, clearing GH¢603 million in outstanding claims from 2024. This strengthens the scheme’s funding and ensures timely support for healthcare providers.
Akandoh highlighted a rise in claims payment allocations from 56.2% in 2024 to 65% in 2025, with plans to reach 75% by 2026. The uncapped NHIS levy and swift fund releases have bolstered the scheme, now covering 15.65 million Ghanaians, up by 670,000 from 2024, ensuring broader access to quality healthcare.
The minister emphasized the government’s commitment to a responsive NHIS, with funds directed to frontline services. The increased enrollment reflects efforts to expand coverage, particularly in underserved areas. Akandoh noted that 2024 delays in claims payments, which sparked protests from providers, have been addressed, with digital systems like the NHIS mobile app improving efficiency.
The initiative aligns with President Mahama’s healthcare reforms, including hospital upgrades and free primary care for children under five. Despite challenges like rising medicine costs, the NHIS’s financial stability has improved, with 2025 disbursements exceeding 2023’s GH¢1.1 billion. Critics, however, call for audits to ensure transparency in fund use.
This milestone highlights the government’s commitment to sustainable healthcare financing. With ongoing plans to digitize claims processing and expand facilities, the NHIS aims to maintain its trajectory as a reliable safety net, benefiting millions while addressing provider concerns and enhancing Ghana’s healthcare system.