The Widows and Orphans Movement (WOM) is advocating for vulnerable individuals, particularly widows, orphans, and disadvantaged groups, to enroll in the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) in order to alleviate the financial burden of accessing healthcare in Ghana.
During a sensitization session in the Talensi District of the Upper East Region, WOM partnered with ActionAid Ghana to educate women leaders and assembly members on the benefits of the NHIS. The aim was to empower them with knowledge about NHIS coverage and exemptions available to vulnerable individuals in their communities.
Nancy Awinbisa Amiziah, the Project Officer at WOM, highlighted the need for vulnerable groups to take advantage of the NHIS exemptions, which include persons with disabilities, indigenes, and those over 70 years old. She noted that many eligible individuals were not aware of these benefits and were therefore not utilizing them.
The session also featured Mr. Mumin Muttalib, Assistant Public Relations Officer of the Talensi/Nabdam Districts of the NHIA, who acknowledged the challenges faced by NHIS cardholders in accessing full services at healthcare facilities. He encouraged women to enroll in the scheme, renew their membership annually, and report any discrepancies to NHIA offices for assistance.
Participants at the workshop, such as Beatrice Saah from the Wakii Titeltaba women’s group, expressed gratitude for the enlightenment received and pledged to disseminate the information to their respective groups. Apana Atubila, an assembly member, promised to support vulnerable members of his community in enrolling in the NHIS.
The WOM’s efforts to educate and empower vulnerable groups to access NHIS benefits are crucial in ensuring equitable healthcare access for all individuals in Ghana. By raising awareness and promoting enrollment in the NHIS, these organizations are making strides towards improving healthcare outcomes for marginalized populations.
