The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has launched a nationwide campaign offering free registration and renewal under the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).
Dubbed the ‘STORM’ Initiative, it forms part of efforts to accelerate Ghana’s progress toward Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
Dr Victor Asare Bampoe, Chief Executive of the NHIA, announced the initiative at a press briefing in Accra on Monday, describing it as a “landmark moment” in the country’s health financing history.
He said the initiative, which runs from April 15 to May 31, 2026, also waives the one-month waiting period traditionally required before accessing healthcare services under the NHIS.
“This is the first time in the history of the NHIS that we are removing both the cost barrier and the waiting period simultaneously
“As part of implementation, NHIA staff have been deployed across the country to register and renew members in markets, lorry parks, religious centres, schools, workplaces, and rural communities,” Dr Bampoe stated.
Advancing Universal Health Coverage
Dr Bampoe explained that the initiative aligns with the broader goal of achieving Universal Health Coverage, defined by the World Health Organisation as ensuring access to needed health services without financial hardship.
He noted that UHC rests on three pillars: quality of care, equitable access, and financial protection, adding that the NHIS remained Ghana’s primary vehicle for delivering on these objectives.
“The NHIS is the bridge between a Ghanaian in need and the care they deserve,” he said.
Link to Free Primary Healthcare Programme
The NHIA CEO further highlighted the connection between the STORM Initiative and the government’s Free Primary Healthcare Programme, launched on April 15, 2026, by President John Dramani Mahama.
The FPHC programme is being rolled out initially in 150 underserved districts and is expected to achieve nationwide coverage by 2028.
“Under the programme, citizens can access services such as routine health screenings, maternal and child healthcare, immunisations, treatment of common illnesses, and health education at no cost at designated facilities, including CHPS compounds, health centres, and public health units of polyclinics,” he said.
Dr Bampoe said while access to primary healthcare services required either a Ghana Card or NHIS card for identification and monitoring, the NHIS remained critical for referrals beyond the primary level.
“When a patient requires advanced or specialised care at district, secondary, or tertiary facilities, it is the NHIS that finances that care,” he explained.
The Authority is also collaborating with community leaders and civil society organisations to maximise outreach, while leveraging digital platforms such as the *929# shortcode and the MyNHIS mobile application.
Call to sustain active membership
Dr Bampoe cautioned that STORM was time-bound and urged citizens to maintain active NHIS membership beyond the free window.
“An expired card does not protect you. It does not facilitate your referral. It does not activate MahamaCares for you,” he said.
He called on the media to support public education efforts to ensure nationwide awareness and participation.
“The message is simple: register, renew, and stay covered. This opportunity could save lives,” he added.
“The STORM Initiative is expected to significantly increase active NHIS membership and strengthen Ghana’s healthcare system by expanding access, reducing out-of-pocket payments, and improving continuity of care across all levels,” he said.
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