The Private Health Facilities Association of Ghana (PHFAoG) has lifted its suspension on healthcare services for National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) cardholders, following a decisive agreement with the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA).
This development comes after a high-level emergency meeting between the leadership of PHFAoG and NHIA officials, where the Authority provided firm assurances to clear all outstanding claims by the close of business on Monday, April 7, 2025.
PHFAoG’s threat
The Association had earlier begun a suspension of NHIS-related services on Friday, April 4, citing prolonged delays in reimbursements that have placed severe financial burdens on private health providers nationwide.
However, in a statement issued after the meeting, PHFAoG President Dr. Kwame Buabeng-Frimpong expressed cautious optimism, stating the Association was acting in good faith following the NHIA’s renewed commitment.
“We appreciate the assurance given by the NHIA. In light of this, and as a demonstration of goodwill, we are pausing our industrial action.”
“Nonetheless, this is a temporary suspension. Should the NHIA fail to deliver on its promise, we will be compelled to take more resolute steps to protect our members and the patients who rely on us,” Dr. Buabeng-Frimpong said.
He emphasized the urgency of the situation, stressing that many private facilities are struggling to maintain operations due to cash flow challenges.
Responding to the concerns, NHIA Chief Executive Officer Dr. Asare Bampoe reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to improving the efficiency of the NHIS.
“We are focused on strengthening the health system, and timely reimbursement of claims is central to that goal.”
“Our engagement with PHFAoG is part of a broader effort to rebuild trust and ensure uninterrupted healthcare delivery,” Dr. Bampoe affirmed.
As a result, private healthcare facilities across Ghana have been directed to resume full services to NHIS cardholders, with a renewed mandate to uphold high standards of care.
This positive turn of events brings relief to thousands of NHIS subscribers who depend on private health institutions for essential medical services.