Gov’t to roll out 120% NHIS tariff increase in 2026

The government has announced a sweeping increase in the National Health Insurance Scheme tariffs, approving an average rise of 120 per cent that will take effect in 2026.

The decision comes after years of frustration among hospitals and clinics that have struggled to operate under payment rates they described as unrealistic and damaging to their ability to deliver reliable care.

Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh made the announcement during the Government Accountability Series held on December 1, noting that the adjustment is meant to bring genuine relief to frontline health workers and facilities.

For many providers, the current tariffs have forced difficult choices such as turning away NHIS patients or cutting back on essential services.

The minister said the new structure will help restore trust in the insurance system and allow facilities to offer the quality of care that citizens expect.

According to Mr Akandoh, the scale of the increase is meant to transform how the system functions.

“Beginning next year, we are going to increase the tariff in the NHIS to the service providers because they have been complaining for years that the tariffs we give them are unrealistic,” he said.

The upcoming changes are expected to help facilities purchase medicines on time, maintain equipment and operate without the fear of losses.

Patients also stand to benefit, especially those who have dealt with delays or been asked for illegal extra payments.

With more than 18 million people currently enrolled in the NHIS, the government believes the new tariff structure will bring stability to a system that millions depend on.

Authorities will release the detailed breakdown of the updated tariffs before the end of the fiscal year.