Government announces 120% NHIS tariff hike to address “unrealistic” provider rates

The government has unveiled a major overhaul of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), announcing an average 120% increase in tariffs paid to healthcare providers, effective 2026. The announcement was made by Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh on Monday, December 1, 2025, during the Government Accountability Series.

The adjustment comes in response to long-standing complaints from hospitals and clinics that existing NHIS tariffs were insufficient and economically unsustainable, often resulting in reduced service quality or refusal to treat NHIS patients.

“Beginning next year, we’re going to increase the tariff paid to service providers. They have been complaining that the current tariffs are unrealistic,” Mr. Akandoh said. “The government has made the decision to increase the tariffs by 120% on average, and I believe this is going to be a game-changer.”

Objectives of the tariff hike

• Strengthening healthcare delivery: The increase will enable providers to purchase essential medicines, maintain equipment, and offer improved standards of care.
• Boosting provider confidence: The adjustment addresses long-standing grievances over low fees, encouraging both public and private facilities to fully participate in NHIS without resorting to illegal co-payments.
• Enhancing service for subscribers: The hike aims to eliminate patient dissatisfaction caused by facilities refusing to treat NHIS members due to low reimbursement rates.

The Health Ministry stated that the intervention is expected to benefit the estimated 18 million Ghanaians currently registered under NHIS, ensuring access to comprehensive care while reducing financial strain on providers.

Further details on specific rate increases for procedures and disease categories under the scheme are expected to be released before the end of the fiscal year.