Healthcare providers across the country are set to receive significantly more financial support from January 2026, as the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) prepares to implement a projected 120% upward adjustment in service tariffs.

The NHIA said the revised tariffs, part of one of the most comprehensive healthcare financing reforms in recent years, will be formally rolled out only after securing approval from the Minister for Health, as required under the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).

The adjustment is expected to strengthen service delivery, improve the financial sustainability of healthcare facilities, and enhance patient experiences across the country.

Speaking at a regional training session for health leaders in the Volta and Oti Regions, Dr Senanu Kwesi Djokoto, Deputy Chief Executive in charge of Operations, commended the Independent Clinical Experts’ Group for producing realistic, evidence-based tariff structures that reflect current costs of care.

Dr Djokoto clarified that although the headline increase appears to be 180%, the effective impact on claims reimbursements will average at least 120%, depending on the case mix of each healthcare facility.

He attributed the breakthrough to government’s decision to un-cap the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF), a policy shift that has unlocked GH¢3.4 billion in additional resources for improving healthcare delivery.

“The uncapping of the NHIF by His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama gives us the fiscal space to implement the reviewed tariffs, roll out the Free Primary Healthcare programme, and dedicate resources to the Ghana Medical Trust Fund for chronic disease support,” he said.

Dr Djokoto also expressed concern about ongoing illegal charges at some health facilities. With more realistic tariffs coming into force, the NHIA intends to intensify its crackdown on unauthorised payments.

He revealed that an NHIA taskforce identified accurate tariff alignment as one of the most effective tools for eliminating illegal fees.

Health sector stakeholders at the training session welcomed the tariff reforms, describing them as timely and essential.

World Bank consultant on the tariff review process, Rev Professor Adukwei Hesse, said the revised structure is “comprehensive and consistent with global best practices.”

Similarly, Dr Isaac Koranteng, Consultant Obstetrician at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, expressed optimism that the new tariffs would reduce illegal co-payments, restore provider confidence, and improve patient welfare.

The NHIA said regional engagements will continue nationwide to ensure healthcare leaders and frontline staff fully understand the revised tariffs and are prepared for the upcoming reforms.