The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has taken decisive action against alleged malpractice within the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), suspending three pharmacies over suspected fraudulent claims and irregular service transactions.
The affected facilities—DELDEM PHARMA LIMITED, PARAMEDICA PHARMACY, and DESH CHEMIST—have been placed under immediate temporary suspension following what the Authority described as a routine claims verification exercise.
According to a public notice issued on Thursday, May 14, the suspension takes effect immediately, barring the pharmacies from providing any services or dispensing medicines under the NHIS until further notice.
The NHIA explained that its investigation uncovered “material irregularities in claims and service transactions associated with these facilities,” raising “reasonable suspicion of fraud and abuse under the NHIS Provider Service Agreement.”
As a result, NHIS members have been advised to seek pharmaceutical services from other accredited providers nationwide while investigations continue.
“NHIS members who require pharmaceutical services are encouraged to seek care from other credentialed NHIS providers nationwide,” the Authority stated.
The NHIA also issued a strong warning to all accredited healthcare providers, stressing its commitment to protecting the integrity and sustainability of the health insurance scheme.
It cautioned that it would not tolerate any fraudulent or abusive practices that could undermine the scheme and potentially deny members access to quality healthcare.
The Authority further reminded providers of the legal consequences of defrauding the scheme, noting that offenders risk fines, imprisonment of up to 10 years, or both upon conviction.
The statement, signed by the Chief Executive of the NHIA, Dr. Victor Asare Bampoe, reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and the prudent management of public funds.
“The NHIA remains committed to ensuring transparency, accountability, and the prudent use of public funds in delivering accessible and quality healthcare to all residents of Ghana,” it added.
