In a move designed to improve healthcare access for visitors and reduce financial strain on the healthcare system, Ghana is implementing a mandatory health insurance policy for all non-resident visitors arriving after July 1, 2024.
Addressing Gaps in Healthcare Coverage
The new policy targets non-resident visitors entering Ghana, regardless of their arrival method – whether through airports with pre-arranged visas or obtaining visas upon arrival. This requirement applies specifically to visitors staying less than six months within a one-year period.
The impetus for this change stems from challenges encountered during the COVID-19 pandemic. Foreign nationals who fell ill placed a burden on Ghana’s healthcare system due to a lack of health insurance.
Dr. Isaac Morrison, a key figure in developing the program, explained, “Lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic, where foreign nationals fell ill and the country had to take care of them as there was no insurance in place, prompted this initiative.”
The National Non-Resident Visitors Health Insurance Scheme
The Ghanaian Ministry of Health (MoH) launched the “National Non-resident Visitors Health Insurance” program in February 2024. This scheme, developed collaboratively with the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) and other stakeholders, will be jointly overseen by these entities.
The activation of Section 2b of the National Health Insurance Act (Act 852) of 2012 provides the legal framework for establishing a health insurance plan specifically for foreign visitors. This approach is not new on the continent, with countries like Sierra Leone and Egypt already implementing similar schemes.
The mandatory health insurance policy offers significant advantages for both visitors and Ghana. Visitors entering the country with this insurance will have peace of mind knowing they have access to necessary healthcare services during their stay. This is especially crucial in case of unforeseen medical emergencies.
For Ghana, the policy reduces the financial burden previously associated with providing healthcare to uninsured foreign visitors. Additionally, streamlining healthcare access for visitors can improve the overall efficiency of the healthcare system.
Implementation Details and Visitor Considerations
While the official launch date is set for July 1, 2024, details regarding specific insurance plans and enrollment procedures are still being finalized. Visitors are advised to closely monitor updates from the Ghanaian government and the NHIA for the latest information on available insurance options and enrollment processes.
Travel advisories and embassy websites are also likely to provide guidance for visitors on complying with the new health insurance requirement.
The implementation of mandatory health insurance for short-term visitors in Ghana reflects the country’s commitment to strengthening its healthcare system and ensuring a more secure healthcare experience for both visitors and citizens.
While some logistical considerations remain to be addressed, the new policy has the potential to streamline healthcare access for visitors, reduce financial strain on the healthcare system, and ultimately contribute to a more robust healthcare landscape in Ghana.
Source: Graphic Online
