National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) of Ghana: who is covered and how to register

Ghana's National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) was established by the National Health Insurance Act, 2003 (Act 650, later replaced by Act 852, 2012) to provide basic healthcare to residents. It is administered by the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA). Membership categories: SSNIT contributors and pensioners (covered automatically); children under 18; pregnant women; persons aged 70 and above; the indigent; and informal-sector adults who pay an annual premium based on socio-economic group. Registration: walk-in to any NHIS district office or accredited agent with a Ghana Card; biometric capture and instant card issuance is available through the mobile renewal service (*929#) for renewals. The NHIS covers approximately 95% of disease burden, including outpatient and inpatient services at accredited facilities, antenatal care, deliveries, child vaccinations and most essential medicines on the NHIS medicines list. It does not cover most cosmetic procedures, organ transplants and assisted reproduction.