PHFAoG halts action to suspend healthcare services to NHIS cardholders

The Private Health Facilities Association of Ghana (PHFAoG) has halted its plan to suspend healthcare services to National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) cardholders, effective immediately.

This decision comes after the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) assured the association that outstanding claims totaling GHC 120 million owed to service providers will be settled by April 7, 2025.

The delayed reimbursement of claims had caused significant financial difficulties for private healthcare providers, forcing some to operate at a loss. However, following an exhaustive meeting with NHIA management, the association received a renewed assurance of payment.

Dr. Kwame Buabeng-Frimpong, President of PHFAoG, said, “After an exhaustive meeting with the management of the NHIA, we have been given a renewed assurance of payment by close of business on Monday, 7th April, 2025. On the back of this development, coupled with a show of good faith by the Authority, we have decided to suspend the ongoing action.”

Dr. Asare Bampoe, CEO of NHIA, reiterated his strong desire and commitment towards ensuring a seamless and unbridled reimbursement regime under his tenure as part of his philosophy of contributing to building a responsive and robust health sector in Ghana.

The PHFAoG had initially planned to suspend healthcare services to NHIS cardholders due to the delayed reimbursement of claims, which had resulted in a significant financial crunch for private healthcare providers. The association had warned that if the NHIA failed to settle the outstanding claims, it would lead to a collapse of the private healthcare sector.

All private healthcare facilities nationwide are advised to continue providing healthcare services to the best of their capacity, ensuring a healthy population. The PHFAoG has warned that it will resort to drastic action if the NHIA reneges on its promise.