Persons suffering Depression, Bipolar, Anxiety and Schizophrenia Disorders to access treatment services for free at any NHIS accredited health facility across the country from November 1.CEO of the National Health Insurance Authority, Dr.
Da-Costa Aboagye says the addition of the four conditions unto the NHIS will improve access to mental health care and fight stigma.The WHO estimates that approximately Forty (40) percent of all persons attending clinics have some kind of mental illness, while one in four persons will become mentally ill at some point in life.Among patients seeking treatment for mental health issues, Schizophrenia, substance abuse and mood disorders are the top three diagnosis.Despite these concerns, stigma continues to be a significant barrier to mental healthcare in the country, increasing negative reaction towards psychiatric patients by their families and the general public.The average prevalence of depression, anxiety and Schizophrenia disorder remain significant in treatment hence the reason behind their addition to the NHIS benefit package to encourage treatment."The mental health has also been on the table for a very long time.
So, the experts advise us, from the Mental Health Authority, those that we can immediately include and give outpatient and inpatient services.
These were selected by the technical team that was put together.