Accra, Ghana — The Health Committee of the Parliament of Ghana has expressed its approval of the government’s roadmap to address the 2.4 billion Cedis arrears owed to the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS). This endorsement comes from both the Chairman and the Ranking Member of the Committee, Dr. Nana Ayew Afriyie and Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, following a public hearing on Tuesday, June 4, 2024.
The hearing, convened to discuss the non-release of funds to the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), brought together key stakeholders from the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Finance, NHIA, and the Controller and Accountant-General’s Department. Despite the roadmap’s details and timelines not being disclosed, both leaders of the Committee conveyed their satisfaction and optimism.
Dr. Nana Ayew Afriyie, Chairman of the Committee, highlighted the substantial progress made in addressing the arrears. “As of now, the Government owes from July 2023 to February, amounting to about 2.4 billion Cedis. They have already released approximately 700 million Cedis. We believe that if these releases and the strategy they have outlined continue as planned, the arrears will likely be cleared,” he remarked.
Dr. Afriyie acknowledged the long-standing issue of arrears within the social health financing space and emphasized the Committee’s dedication to resolving it. “The Minority raised this issue, and it has become a priority for the Committee. We have brought all relevant parties together, and the roadmap is promising. If this plan is executed as outlined, it will set a positive precedent and signify substantial progress,” he added.
Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, the Ranking Member on the Health Committee, echoed these sentiments and stressed the importance of adhering to the agreement. “As the Chairman indicated, some ground rules have been established. It is our prayer and hope that all parties will honor the agreement to reduce the arrears owed to the National Health Insurance Authority. This will enable the NHIA to operate smoothly for the benefit of the entire country,” he stated.
The endorsement of the government’s roadmap by both the Chairman and Ranking Member signifies a significant step toward resolving the financial challenges facing the NHIS, promising improved healthcare services for all Ghanaians.
Source: Clement Akoloh||parliamentnews360.com
