The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) on Tuesday joined the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) to launch a telehealth service aimed at improving healthcare access for pensioners across the country as a key developing and implementing partner of the initiative.
Known as the SSNIT Telehealth service, it is expected to enable pensioners to consult healthcare professionals remotely, reducing barriers associated with distance, travel, waiting times and access to healthcare facilities.
The official launch was led by the SSNIT Board Chair, Nana Ansah Sasraku III.
Speaking at the launch in Accra, Dr. Victor Asare Bampoe, Chief Executive of the NHIA, described the initiative as a major step towards leveraging technology to address the changing healthcare needs of Ghanaians, particularly retirees.
“It is a great honour to join you today on behalf of the NHIA as we mark the official launch of the SSNIT Telehealth Services in partnership with the Trust Hospital.
He noted that telehealth was increasingly transforming healthcare systems around the world by enabling patients to consult qualified health professionals remotely.
He explained that the approach helped to overcome challenges associated with distance, transportation and long waiting periods, while making healthcare services more convenient and accessible.
He said the Authority was encouraged by the comprehensive nature of the model, which included access to prescribed medicines through participating pharmacies, creating a more seamless patient-centred healthcare experience,” he noted.
“For many pensioners, particularly those living far from major health facilities or managing chronic conditions, this service will make access to healthcare easier, faster and more convenient.
He commended SSNIT for its leadership in advancing innovative healthcare solutions for pensioners and improving the quality of life of retirees.
Dr. Asare Bampoe reaffirmed the NHIA’s commitment to working with SSNIT, the Trust Hospital, healthcare providers, regulators and other stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation and sustainability of the SSNIT telehealth services across the country.
“Today’s launch is a clear demonstration of what can be achieved when institutions work together to respond to the challenging and changing healthcare needs of Ghanaians, especially our pensioners.
“Together, we can build a healthcare system that is more accessible, responsive, and inclusive for every Ghanaian,” he affirmed.
NHIA’s Mandate
He said the NHIA remained committed to its mandate of ensuring that every Ghanaian and legal resident had access to quality healthcare without suffering financial hardship.
“To deliver on this mandate, we must continue to embrace innovation and find smarter and more efficient ways of connecting people to the care they need. It is for this reason that we are proud to champion the national telehealth agenda.
“The integration of telehealth into the NHIS ecosystem marks an important step in expanding access while preserving quality and continuity of care. We are especially encouraged that this model goes beyond remote consultation to include access to prescribed medications through participating pharmacies, thereby creating a more seamless patient-cantered healthcare experience. ,” he said.
Keynote address
In a keynote address, Kwesi Afreh Biney, Director-General of SSNIT, described the initiative as “more than just a service,” calling it a new approach to promoting retirement dignity and social protection.
He said the programme reflects SSNIT’s evolution from just a pension administration institution into a broader social impact organisation that responds to the changing needs of its members.
He said Telehealth platform will allow pensioners to access remote medical consultations from the comfort of their homes, regardless of their location.
He acknowledged the support of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) and Trust Hospital, describing their partnership as essential to the successful implementation of the programme.
Dr. Emelia Hoffman, Deputy Director-General in charge of Finance and Administration at SSNIT noted that retirement should not mean isolation from healthcare services, stressing that pensioners deserved dependable support systems that promote security, comfort and well-being.
She encouraged pensioners to embrace the service, assuring them that it had been designed with their health and welfare in mind.
How it works
Under the programme, all SSNIT pensioners whose SSNIT or Ghana Card numbers are linked to their National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) numbers are eligible to access the service.
Pensioners whose cards are not linked can use the shortcode *929# to complete the process.
The service is supported by a dedicated telehealth call centre accessible through the toll-free number 0800 877 555, where trained healthcare professionals are available daily to provide medical support and guidance. Pensioners do not incur any charges when calling the centre.
Following consultations, prescriptions are issued electronically through the telehealth platform and transmitted to approved community pharmacies participating in the programme.
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