Kwabena Mintah Akandoh says NHIS active membership reached 70%

Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh has announced that active membership of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) reached 70% of the population as of August 2026. This represents a significant increase from the 56.3% coverage recorded in 2024. Speaking on the progress of the scheme, the Minister attributed the rapid expansion to strategic financial reforms and a renewed focus on ensuring the sustainability and efficiency of health service delivery across the country.

The Minister identified the uncapping of the National Health Insurance Levy (NHIL) as a primary driver of the scheme's recent growth. This policy shift allowed for a substantial increase in available funding, which rose from GH 6.5 billion in 2024 to GH 9.8 billion in 2025. Consequently, the government has been able to increase payments to healthcare providers by 50%, addressing long-standing concerns regarding the reimbursement of claims and improving the overall stability of the healthcare supply chain.

Beyond membership figures, Akandoh highlighted several initiatives intended to strengthen the broader healthcare system and support the membership surge. These include the implementation of the Free Primary Healthcare program and the expansion of hospital infrastructure projects. The Minister also noted an increase in the number of operational ambulances and the introduction of new nursing programs designed to enhance the quality of care available to subscribers. These efforts are part of a coordinated strategy by the government to achieve Universal Health Coverage by improving both medical access and financial affordability for all Ghanaians.