The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has disbursed over GH¢210 million to credentialed healthcare service providers across the country for services rendered to members of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).
In a press release issued on November 4, the Authority said the latest disbursement, made in October 2026, brings total claims payments made since the beginning of the year to GH¢2.325 billion. The October payment of GH¢210,359,997.55 was distributed among public, private and mission healthcare facilities. Public healthcare facilities received GH¢114,517,237.92, representing 54.44 per cent; private healthcare facilities received GH¢64,461,422.32, or 30.64 per cent; and mission healthcare facilities received GH¢31,381,337.31, representing 14.92 per cent.
The disbursement is expected to strengthen the operational capacity of healthcare facilities, support the procurement of essential medicines and medical supplies, and enhance the delivery of quality healthcare services to NHIS members.
Warning against illegal charges
While acknowledging the critical role of healthcare providers, the Authority issued a strong warning to all credentialed healthcare facilities to immediately desist from charging members illegal fees for services covered under the NHIS Benefit Package.
The NHIA said it is particularly concerned about reports of some facilities compelling NHIS members, including vulnerable patients, to make additional payments for services, medicines and procedures for which the Authority is responsible for reimbursing providers.
It reminded providers that claims reimbursements are being processed and payments released regularly, and that the NHIA has undertaken significant upward adjustments to NHIS tariffs, including an increase of approximately 50 per cent, to improve provider reimbursement rates. "It is therefore unacceptable for any credentialed provider to continue imposing unauthorised charges on NHIS members under the pretext of inadequate tariffs, delayed claims payments, or operational challenges," the statement read.
The NHIA warned that facilities and practitioners found engaging in such practices risk facing appropriate sanctions, including recovery of unauthorised charges, suspension or termination of credentialing, and referral to the appropriate regulatory or law enforcement bodies where necessary.
Members urged to report illegal charges
The Authority urged NHIS members not to remain silent when confronted with unauthorised charges for services covered by the Scheme, stressing that members have the right to access covered healthcare services without being compelled to make illegal out-of-pocket payments. Members who encounter such situations are encouraged to demand clarification from the facility and report the matter to the NHIA through its established complaint and customer service channels for prompt investigation and redress.
The NHIA reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening its claims management systems, improving reimbursement timelines, enhancing provider accountability, and protecting the rights of NHIS members.
