The Abura-Asebu-Kwamankese NHIS Office Advocates for Stronger Collaboration for Universal Health Coverage
The Abura-Asebu-Kwamankese (AAK) office of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) has emphasized the need for enhanced collaboration among stakeholders to further advance Ghana’s progress towards Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
Unity for Progress
During a forum themed “Sustaining our Gains Towards Universal Health Coverage: A Collective Responsibility,” District Manager Mr. Edward Mensah highlighted the importance of all actors in the health sector coming together to support the UHC agenda. He emphasized that recent accomplishments must be safeguarded through joint efforts and systemic improvements.
Notable Milestones
Mr. Mensah outlined significant milestones achieved by the NHIS, including the implementation of digital enrolment systems, automatic free renewal for SSNIT contributors and pensioners, and the provision of free healthcare services for specific groups under President John Dramani Mahama‘s “MAHAMA CARE” initiative.
He emphasized, “These achievements are more than just numbers. They signify improved lives, supported families, and secured futures. However, we cannot afford to be complacent, as barriers to access still exist for the marginalized and underprivileged.”
Addressing Systemic Gaps
While acknowledging progress, Mr. Mensah raised concerns about systemic challenges such as illegal payments, data integrity issues, low public awareness, and logistical hurdles that hinder NHIS operations and prevent vulnerable populations from accessing entitled services.
He questioned, “Why should a financially disadvantaged pregnant woman have to pay for services covered by NHIS? Such practices erode trust and deter those in need from seeking healthcare.”
Call for Collective Action
Mr. Mensah urged a united front involving government agencies, healthcare providers, NGOs, religious leaders, and local assemblies to address existing gaps and enhance service delivery. He stressed the importance of collaboration and mutual support in achieving equitable healthcare access for all.
He also highlighted the necessity of continuous monitoring and feedback mechanisms to sustain progress, emphasizing the importance of evaluation and adjustment based on key performance indicators.
Building on a Vision
Mr. Mensah’s remarks align with President Mahama’s broader health policy vision, which focused on expanding healthcare access through initiatives like CHPS compounds and digital NHIS systems. Health analysts view the NHIS’s emphasis on stakeholder collaboration and digital innovation as key to achieving UHC.
However, they caution that without addressing inefficiencies and rebuilding public trust, Ghana risks setbacks in its pursuit of health equity goals.
Rallying for Change
Mr. Mensah concluded with a call to action, urging all stakeholders to work together to strengthen Ghana’s health institutions and establish globally admired healthcare systems. While acknowledging the challenges ahead, he emphasized the need for unity in moving forward.
