Vice President Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang has directed the National Health Insurance Authority to intensify enforcement against health facilities demanding illegal charges from patients. She said her office was informed of “isolated instances” where some institutions still attempt to charge unapproved fees despite ongoing reforms.
Addressing NHIA leadership led by Dr. Divine Ndonbi Banyubala, she stated that the Authority must ensure strict compliance. “Concerns were raised about isolated instances where some facilities continue to demand illegal fees. It is a fight the CEO is determined to confront,” she noted.
Opoku-Agyemang also pushed for stronger emphasis on disease prevention and public health campaigns. She said preventative care “must become a pillar” of national health delivery and called for consistent education on sanitation and hygiene to reduce disease burdens.
The Vice President further highlighted the need for oversight in medical laboratory operations, pointing to issues of exploitation and unethical practices. She said the NHIA and partner agencies must support laboratory personnel and protect patients from unfair treatment.
She emphasised clear communication with the public ahead of major policy rollouts. According to her, “public sensitization must be intensified” so citizens understand the benefits and structure of reforms, including the Ghana Health Trust Fund and nationwide Free Primary Health Care coverage.
Opoku-Agyemang commended the NHIA for its work but stressed that citizens’ dignity and fairness in access remain the central goals of government health policy.
