“Mental Health Matters: Ghana Expands NHIS to Cover 4 Critical Conditions”
Ghana’s National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) is taking a major step forward in mental health care. Starting November 1, 2024, four mental health conditions will be covered under the scheme: *Depression Disorder*, *Bipolar Disorder*, *Anxiety Disorder*, and *Schizophrenia Disorder* ¹.
This move aims to improve access to mental health care, removing financial and geographical barriers. NHIS subscribers can access these services from any accredited facility, while specialized mental health hospitals like Accra Psychiatric Hospital, Ankaful Psychiatric Hospital, and Pantang Psychiatric Hospital will provide free care.
The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) recognizes that stigma surrounding mental illness often prevents individuals from seeking help. By integrating mental health care into the NHIS, the government hopes to provide a lifeline for those suffering from these conditions, enabling them to access necessary treatments without barriers.
Recent enhancements to the NHIS also include:
– *Family Planning Services* to promote reproductive health and reduce maternal mortality rates
– *Childhood Cancer Treatment* for Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia, Burkitt Lymphoma, Retinoblastoma, and Wilms Tumour
– *Dialysis* under the scheme
– *Free Annual Health Screenings* for all Ghanaians aged 18 and above
The NHIA is committed to continually improving the NHIS to meet the evolving healthcare needs of the population, ensuring quality healthcare for all Ghanaians regardless of economic status or location.
