The government has announced a major overhaul of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), confirming a 120% average increase in tariffs paid to healthcare providers beginning in 2026.
The adjustment, revealed by Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh during the Government Accountability Series on December 1, marks one of the most significant funding injections in the scheme’s history.
The increase follows years of complaints from hospitals and clinics that NHIS tariffs were too low to sustain quality healthcare.
Mr. Akandoh said the review will restore confidence in the scheme and ease the financial strain on service providers who have long described the existing rates as unrealistic.
“Beginning next year, we’re going to increase the tariff in the NHIS to the service providers… the tariffs we give them are unrealistic,” he said. He added that raising the average rate by 120% is expected to “be a game-changer.”
The government believes the adjustment will stabilise healthcare delivery by enabling facilities to maintain equipment, procure essential medicines, and provide quality care without resorting to co-payments or turning NHIS clients away.
Mr. Akandoh said the measure is intended to strengthen the system, improve provider confidence and ensure better service for NHIS subscribers.
Further details on the specific tariff increments for various procedures and disease categories will be released before the end of the fiscal year.
