The Ministry of Health has clarified that the mandatory health insurance policy for foreign visitors is still only a proposal by the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) and not an official government policy. Chief Executive Officer at the National Health Insurance Authority(NHIA), Dr. Dacosta Aboagye, posted the message on his official Facebook page.
Earlier reports suggested that starting from July 1, 2024, foreign nationals arriving in Ghana would need to purchase a compulsory health insurance policy, with costs ranging from $45 to $270. However, Dr. Dacosta Aboagye emphasized that Cabinet has not yet discussed or approved the proposal.
While the NHIA aims to ensure foreign nationals have access to healthcare during their stay in Ghana, the policy’s implementation remains subject to thorough scrutiny and adherence to necessary protocols before finalization.
He, however, indicated that “No decision has been taken by the NHIA Executive Management nor the Board on the way forward of this National Non-resident Visitors Health Insurance policy developed in 2023 and launched in February 2024, before my assumption of office “.
Indeed, the Daily Graphic article dated June 17, 2024, clearly stated, “ In February 2024, the Ministry of Health (MoH) launched the national health insurance policy for foreigners visiting Ghana for a short period”. Click Here For Details of the article.
We at sankofaonline.com are at a loss about this statement issued by no less a person than the Chief Executive Officer at the National Health Insurance Authority(NHIA) and the Ministry, putting the cart before the horse.
We ask how a policy could be officially launched without first obtaining approval? Approval ensures the policy aligns with legal, regulatory, and procedural requirements. Until it receives the necessary consent, any proposed policy remains in the planning or proposal stage.
The recent revelation, following accusations that the Ministry neglected to clear life-saving medications donated by the Global Fund at the Tema Harbor for over a year, is deeply concerning. It raises questions about the competence of the officials overseeing these critical matters at the Ministry.
What does the Chief Executive Officer want to achieve with this blatant cover-up of another blunder by the Ministry?
Ghanaians deserve outright truthfulness and transparency in this matter. Come again, Dr. Dacosta Aboagye!
Source: sankofaonline.com
