NHIA Boss Assures Health Providers: Claims Backlog Clearing, Tariff Review Imminent

The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has assured healthcare providers across Ghana that outstanding claims payments are being cleared at an accelerated pace, with a review of service tariffs now closer to implementation than ever before.

Speaking at the 2026 Christian Health Association of Ghana (CHAG) Annual Conference held in Koforidua, NHIA Chief Executive Officer Dr Victor Asare Bampoe acknowledged the financial strain that delayed reimbursements have placed on hospitals and clinics, but said the situation has improved markedly following increased backing from the Ministry of Finance.

"The Ministry of Finance has been extremely supportive in ensuring that we improve claims payments to providers. We are grateful for the additional resources that have enabled us to make significant progress," Dr Bampoe told delegates at the conference.

A key concern for health facilities has been the current reimbursement tariffs, which providers argue no longer reflect the true cost of medicines, medical supplies and service delivery in the face of rising inflation. Dr Bampoe said discussions on revising the tariffs have advanced considerably and offered reassurance that finalisation is on the horizon. "These conversations are not finished, but they are not stalled," he said, adding that the NHIA is working to ensure any revised rates are sustainable for both providers and the Scheme as a whole.

• Parliament approved GH¢10.7 billion for the NHIS in 2025, with GH¢6.5 billion set aside specifically for provider claims — one of the largest such allocations in recent years.
• CHAG facilities account for between 30 and 40 per cent of healthcare services delivered nationwide, making improvements in reimbursements particularly significant for rural and underserved communities.
• The NHIA chief stressed that timely claims payment and fair tariffs are essential as government prepares to scale up its flagship Free Primary Health Care programme.

Dr Bampoe reiterated the NHIA's commitment to building a more responsive and financially stable national health insurance system, describing the relationship with providers as fundamental to delivering quality care to every Ghanaian.