NHIA Implements Measures to Eliminate Illicit Fees, Bono East Regional Director Affirms

TECHIMAN — The Bono East Regional Director for the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), Mr George Oppong-Dankwah, has confirmed the introduction of strict measures to terminate illegal charges levied by some health facilities on clients.

According to Ghana News Agency, Mr Oppong-Dankwah, speaking at the 2023 Regional third quarter review meeting in commemoration of the NHIA’s 20-year anniversary, these unauthorized charges have historically disrupted the operation of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) and have undermined its original purpose. To combat this issue, co-payment committees have been instituted across district and regional capitals to oversee and regulate the billing procedures within various health facilities across the nation.

The Regional Director reported that these interventions are producing positive outcomes and mentioned that desks have been established in all health facilities to maintain regular monitoring and supervision of billing processes. He indicated that through these efforts, there has been a substantial compliance improvement in the operational facilities.

In discussing performance, Mr Oppong-Dankwah revealed that from January to September 2023, the region accomplished roughly 80 percent of its target, a comparison made against the same period in the previous year. He attributed the dip in performance to unforeseen circumstances, including natural disasters.

Mr Oppong-Dankwah reiterated the NHIA’s dedication to providing quality healthcare in the region and the country, recognizing health as the cornerstone of human resource development. He also acknowledged challenges faced by the Authority, such as poor network connectivity affecting timely reporting, delays in receiving weekly membership reports, and inconsistent submission of monthly co-payment reports by district offices. Nevertheless, he encouraged the staff to remain dedicated to building a more robust scheme.