Businessman supports NHIS registration for deprived residents in Lower West Akyem

Despite government efforts, many rural residents in Ghana lack health insurance. Their children are often unregistered on the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).

Even those who register frequently do not renew their membership. This makes accessing healthcare difficult for many communities.

To improve health coverage in Lower West Akyem Municipality, John Massey Arthur is taking action. He is the CEO of Brand Forwarder Ventures and manages the Kasapreko Depot in Asamankese. He has facilitated NHIS registration for deprived children, pregnant women, the elderly, and youth.

Mr. Arthur spoke to the media about his experiences. His office receives many requests for financial help with hospital bills from vulnerable individuals. "Many rural residents lack health insurance," he said. "Those with NHIS cards often fail to renew them."

In response to this issue, Mr. Arthur decided to sponsor NHIS registrations as part of his company's Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives. He chose to mark his birthday by helping as many rural dwellers as possible.

This initiative aims to reduce healthcare costs for residents and improve access to medical services for vulnerable community members.

"Children and women are particularly vulnerable at health facilities," Mr. Arthur noted. "Some people are detained after treatment because they cannot pay their bills." He emphasized that NHIS could greatly support these individuals.

He added, "We all have a responsibility to contribute to children's well-being." Investing in their future can lead to a brighter tomorrow.

The Public Relations Officer for NHIS, Mr. Okyere, highlighted the importance of registering for the scheme. He assured Ghanaians that issues like extortion and overbilling at health facilities have been addressed.

Reforms have been introduced to penalize facilities that exploit NHIS cardholders. Mr. Okyere reaffirmed the Scheme’s commitment to working with stakeholders toward universal health coverage.