NHIA Registers 1,644 Glefe Residents for Free
The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) made significant strides in public health awareness with a successful Community Durbar held at the forecourt of the Royal Hospital in Glefe. This event, organized by the Provider and Client Relations Unit of the Corporate Affairs Directorate, marked the culmination of the NHIA’s outreach program aimed at promoting the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).
Under the theme “Bringing Healthcare Closer to the Public: The Role of the National Health Insurance Scheme in Building Healthier Communities,” the durbar drew a diverse audience, including dignitaries, NHIA staff, traditional leaders, health sector representatives, media personnel, and community members.
Among the notable attendees were Hon. Joycelyn Quarshie, the Member of Parliament for North Dayi; Mr. Oswald Assuah-Mensah, Acting Director of Corporate Affairs at NHIA; Mr. Oti Boateng, Director of Special Initiatives at NHIA; and Madam Shiella Agyekum, a representative from the Ablekuma West District’s Municipal Directorate of Health Services. The event also featured respected traditional leaders such as Nii Adama Okoso (Chief Fisherman of Akweteman), Nii Mtam (Chief Fisherman of Shiabu), Naa Ode (Asafoanye of Chorkor), and Chorkor Nii Oshipi.
In her opening remarks, Mrs. Hamdiya Amadu Yakubu, Deputy Director for Provider and Client Relations, welcomed the attendees and emphasized the NHIA’s commitment to eliminating out-of-pocket healthcare expenses. She reiterated the vision of Dr. Victor Asare Bampoe, CEO of the NHIA, who aims to ensure that all Ghanaians have access to essential health services through the NHIS. “We must all get on board if we are to achieve Free Universal Health Coverage,” she urged.
A highlight of the event was the announcement that 1,644 community members had been registered free of charge by the NHIA at Glefe, demonstrating the authority’s commitment to expanding access to healthcare for underserved populations. This initiative aims to alleviate financial barriers and ensure that more individuals can benefit from the NHIS.
Chairing the durbar, Hon. Joycelyn Quarshie delivered a passionate address that underscored the ongoing challenges many Ghanaians face in accessing healthcare. “Healthcare is not a luxury—it is a right,” she proclaimed, commending the NHIS as one of Ghana’s most transformative social policies. She encouraged ongoing efforts to close the gap in healthcare access throughout the nation.
Mr. Oswald Assuah-Mensah and Mr. Oti Boateng engaged with the audience, providing insights into NHIS operations and addressing concerns regarding registration and service delivery.
The NHIA also took the opportunity to acknowledge the contributions of corporate sponsors, including Promasidor Ghana Limited, Ozons Chemist, and Coca-Cola Company, for their support of the outreach initiative.
The event was facilitated by the NHIS Ablekuma District office, led by Mr. Borketey Bortey, and reinforced the NHIA’s commitment to expanding public engagement through community-centered activities like the durbar. The aim is to ensure that every Ghanaian is well-informed about and can benefit from the National Health Insurance Scheme.