Chief Imam advocates gov't increasing NHIS funds

The National Chief Imam has lauded the proposal to seek additional funding for the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).

According to Sheikh Usman Nuhu Sharubutu, “many Ghanaians largely depend on the NHIS for their health care, and therefore its sustenance is key in promoting national development.”

The revered man of God said this when management of the Scheme led by its CEO, Dr Samuel Annor paid a courtesy call on him at his Fadama residence, Thursday.

The visit was among others, to seek for his support and input on the request by various stakeholders for government to reconsider the financial model of the scheme.

From the beginning of this year, management of the NHIA has deliberated with various stakeholders, including civil society organizations, chiefs and the general public on its reforms.

The proposals made to government included among others, increasing the National Health Insurance Levy (NHIL) component of the VAT from 2.5% to 3.5%, levy on sugar, alcohol, tobacco to fund the scheme.

Also, the Scheme wanted an allocation of some of the oil revenue into the Health Fund to enable it to become financially stable for its efficient operations.

The Chief Imam praised the managers of the Scheme on the prompt payment of claims to service providers.

Sheikh Nuhu Sharubutu called on them to ensure that members are given the best health care when they visit their facilities.

On his part, Dr Annor assured the Chief Imam and his elders of measures the Board and management are putting in place to arrest the seepage of scarce NHIS funds.

“The Board has directed that our Management engages the right procedures to roll out the electronic claims system which seeks to reduce the time for claims processing and fraud in the scheme,” he said. 

He added, “we are currently piloting an innovation where our members will no longer have to travel and wait for hours to renew their membership but instead, use mobile phones through a shortcode from the comfort of their homes.”