Dr. Bampoe explained that the proposed hike follows extensive technical work by a team of independent experts tasked with reviewing tariffs under Sections 33 and 34 of the National Health Insurance Act, which mandate annual revisions of both medicine and service tariffs.

“What we are thinking of is that we have done the work and we think that it should be 120 percent. We are proposing it. It was done by a group of experts,” he said on Channel One TV.

He noted that while the medicines tariff review has already been completed, the service tariff review—initiated in 2022—took longer due to its comprehensive scope. “There are two types of reviews that we need to do, but this was a really comprehensive one, so I think they could not finish on time and so it is now that they have finished,” he explained.

Dr. Bampoe emphasized that implementation now hinges solely on statutory approvals. “Now it has to go to the Board for them to look at it and give their view on it. It has to go to the Minister of Health to give his assent, and then we will implement it if they all think it is okay,” he stated.

Speaking on Channel One TV, Dr. Bampoe said, “We’ve a challenge of illegal fees at hospitals,” highlighting ongoing efforts by the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) to eliminate out-of-pocket payments demanded from patients.

He outlined a three-point vision aimed at improving patient experiences in healthcare facilities, noting that many hospitals fail to provide a satisfactory experience because patients are forced to pay unofficial fees.

“Some health providers argue that NHIA tariffs are unrealistic, which contributes to this practice. We believe that once tariffs are fair, there will be no excuse for health providers to ask patients to pay out-of-pocket,” he explained.

Dr. Bampoe’s comments come as part of broader efforts to enhance accountability and efficiency within Ghana’s healthcare system.

In a public notice, the Authority stated that the waiver will be in effect from now through 14 December 2025 as part of this year’s NHIS Active Month campaign.

This means all eligible persons who enrol or renew within the period will enjoy immediate access to NHIS services without the usual waiting period.

The NHIA explained that the initiative aims to expand access to healthcare and encourage more people to remain active members of the scheme. It described the campaign as part of ongoing efforts “to make it easier for everyone to stay active on the Scheme and to ensure that no one is left behind in accessing healthcare.”

The Authority urged the public to take advantage of the temporary waiver by enrolling or renewing their membership through any NHIS district office, the MyNHIS app, or the *929# short code. Members were also encouraged to activate Auto-Renewal to prevent future lapses in coverage.

“We urge everyone, especially those whose membership has expired for more than three months, to renew promptly and continue enjoying the benefits of quality, affordable healthcare,” the NHIA statement said.