Since its inception in 2003, the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) has been designed to provide equal access and financial coverage for basic health care services to all Ghanaians. However, more than two decades later, the scheme seems to be facing challenges.

At the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, the country's largest referral health center, patients from all over come for medical care. Despite having a valid NHIS card, patients often find that quality healthcare comes at a cost.

Cecilia Borden, a mother whose son was involved in a car accident in the Central Region, experienced this firsthand. She had to transfer him to Korle Bu Teaching Hospital due to the severity of his injuries. However, she was surprised to find out that the NHIS did not cover most of the medication needed for his treatment, leading to unexpected expenses.

Similarly, a pensioner and former staff of the hospital expressed concern that his NHIS card does not cover the cost of most of his medications. This often forces him to postpone doctor's appointments due to financial constraints, risking complications.

In 2022, the NHIS added treatment for four childhood cancers to its benefit package. However, concerns persist about the scheme's effectiveness and its failure to cover the costs of some basic diseases.

Belinda Quaye, another mother, faced a similar situation when her daughter needed treatment at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital. Despite having an NHIS card, she was informed that most of the prescribed medications were not covered by the scheme.

Overall, patients at the hospital continue to face financial challenges as they either have to pay extra for services or find that the NHIS does not cover some basic services they expected it to.