The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has successfully concluded its final Trainer of Trainers’ sensitization workshop in Tamale in preparation for the nationwide rollout of four major digital transformational reforms scheduled for January 2026.

The workshop aimed to equip key regional and district-level stakeholders with the knowledge and skills required to support the smooth implementation of the reforms across the country. The meeting brought together key stakeholders from the Upper East and Upper West Regions.

Participants from the Ghana Health Service included Deputy Directors of Clinical Care, Regional NHIS Focal Persons, Regional IT Managers, and District Directors of Health Services. From the NHIA, attendees included Regional Directors, four representatives from each regional office, and five core staff from all district offices in both regions. Technical expertise was provided by software developers JAMS Info Systems, represented by Mr. Richard Asravor and Mr. Emmanuel Dedume.

Delivering the opening remarks, Mr. Oswald Essuah-Mensah, Acting Director of Corporate Affairs, welcomed participants and reaffirmed management’s commitment to building a modern, efficient, and people-centered NHIA. He noted that the upcoming digital reforms represent a significant step toward improving service delivery, expanding access, and strengthening public trust.

Highlighting recent milestones such as growth in active membership, increased claims allocation, and new health financing innovations, he emphasized the vital role of frontline staff in championing the transformation. Mr. Essuah-Mensah underscored that the NHIS remains Ghana’s primary vehicle for ensuring equitable access to healthcare.

With current population coverage at approximately 60%, representing about 20 million active members, he encouraged staff to intensify efforts to enroll the remaining 40%. He further explained that the new digital systems will strengthen existing operations, enhance efficiency, promote transparency, and support Ghana’s journey toward Universal Health Coverage (UHC).

The four digital transformational reforms are:

1. Biometric Membership Authentication System (BMAS)

2. Cashless Payment Solution

3. National Electronic Health Services Application (Telehealth)

4. National Electronic Pharmacy Platform (E-Pharmacy)

In a detailed presentation, Mr. Stephen Bewong, Deputy Director of MIS, elaborated on the reforms. He explained that the Biometric Membership Authentication System (BMAS) will provide each NHIS member with a secure, unique digital identity using fingerprint and other biometric data. This will enable accurate verification at the point of care, eliminate duplicate or fraudulent memberships, and ensure that only eligible beneficiaries receive services.

By providing real-time member validation, BMAS will significantly reduce fraudulent claims and financial leakage, ultimately safeguarding the scheme’s integrity and ensuring that provider reimbursements reflect actual services delivered. He further introduced the NHIS Electronic Health Facility Attendance Management System, which incorporates a One-Time Attendance Code (OTC). This fraud-resistant system authenticates both insured members and providers and will support the upcoming rollout of the Free Primary Health Care programme. Clients will need to generate a temporary access code before receiving services.

On the National Electronic Health Services Application (Telehealth), Mr. Bewong highlighted that it is being deployed nationwide to allow clients to access healthcare remotely. A prior facility visit is required before using the service. During booking, clients may choose between audio or video consultations, and all telehealth services will be reimbursable under the NHIS. He further highlighted the National Electronic Pharmacy Platform (E-Pharmacy), introduced by the Ministry of Health with support from the Pharmacy Council and partner agencies.

The platform enables the public to access safe, affordable, and high-quality medicines digitally, contributing significantly to Ghana’s efforts to achieve UHC. Presenting the communication and public education strategy, Mr. Essuah-Mensah explained that the Trainer of Trainers workshop is designed to equip core NHIA staff to transfer knowledge to colleagues, healthcare providers, and the public ahead of the rollout. The sensitization strategy focuses on creating mass awareness of the reforms and ensuring consistency in messaging across all districts.

Participants received speaking notes and communication guidelines targeted at key audiences, including the public, healthcare providers, community leaders, media institutions, and internal staff. Mr. Essuah-Mensah further encouraged participants to subscribe to and follow NHIS social media platforms to stay updated and effectively disseminate information.

Closing the meeting, Mr. Rashid Tindogo, NHIA Upper West Regional Director, expressed gratitude to Executive Management for championing the digital transformation agenda. He stated, “These reforms will improve access to healthcare and support the NHIA’s quest to achieve Universal Health Coverage. The world is now digital, and the NHIA is taking healthcare a step further.” He urged all staff to take the sensitization exercise seriously to ensure a successful rollout in January 2026.

The NHIA encourages its members and the public to stay informed through official NHIS channels as preparations advance toward the launch of these transformative digital services.

Source: Rufina Ankwain – Regional PRO, Upper East

Picture Credit: Andrew Awonnore – PR Manager, Northern Region