The Regional Manager of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), Mr. Collins Danso has stated that the Old health insurance ID card system is about to phase out for a new one to be used all over the country.

He made this statement at the 2nd Annual General meeting of the Suhum Kraboa Coaltar District Mutual Health Insurance Scheme in Suhum in the Eastern Region which was held yesterday at the community centre.

The day which was marked under the theme:  “Four Years of Mutual Health Insurance, Challenges and the Way Forward,” was used to take stock of the schemes activities for the past years and to plan ahead.

Mr Danso said that the scheme is to network all activities to make access to health easily and
throughout the country. He noted that the policy will start in three Districts in the Eastern Region, namely, New Juaben, Manya Krobo and Asuogyaman on a pilot basis.

On the refund or payment of bills to service providers, he said the new policy is to change to a
uniform face unlike the previous mode where bills were charged differently.  He commended the Board of Directors, the Manager and Staff of the Suhum Kroboa Coaltar Health Insurance Scheme for the good work in the rise of contributors from 35,413 in 2007 to 85,261 in 2008.

He pleaded that everyone should register since the scheme serves as a cushion for both the rich and poor.

The District Chief Executive, Mr. Michael Kofi Mensah, said one of the numerous beneficial policies of the government has been the implementation of the NHIS. This has alleviated the suffering hitherto facing Ghanaians, he noted.

They should therefore get on board, adding, those who refuse are doing a disservice to themselves since government subsidises payment of bills.  He advised those who have understood the scheme to help educate those still sitting on the fence.

Source: ISD (Evelyn Harvey, Suhum)

Posted:  09/05/08