Juaboso: The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has announced the clearance of more than GHS 800 million in accumulated debts to healthcare service providers under the Scheme, marking a significant step in addressing financial backlogs that have historically plagued the institution. The announcement was made by Dr. Da-costa Aboagye, the Chief Executive Officer of NHIA, at the inauguration of a new district office in Juaboso, Western North Region, aimed at enhancing healthcare accessibility. According to Ghana News Agency, Dr. Aboagye detailed the NHIA's journey from struggling with a GHS 1.2 billion debt in 2017, which equaled its annual budget, to making substantial payments totaling over GHS 800 million in the past month alone, with an additional GHS 300 million disbursed in October 2024. These payments have covered all claims up to August 2024, bringing the Authority up to date with no outstanding claims. Dr. Aboagye emphasized the significant progress made and encouraged healthcare facilities to submit any new claims for prompt payment. During his speech at the durbar of Chiefs in Juaboso, Dr. Aboagye highlighted the government's dedication to improving health service delivery through strategic expansions such as the new district office. This office will support individuals who face challenges in accessing digital platforms for health insurance registration or renewal. The CEO's remarks underscored the NHIA's goal of expanding coverage and ensuring that all Ghanaians have access to quality healthcare services. Dr. Aboagye also noted a significant increase in active members on the National Health Insurance Scheme, from 10 million in 2015 to 17.8 million by December 2023. He outlined further initiatives to enhance the healthcare system, including the introduction of an 'E-pharmacy policy' to streamline prescription management and improve patient access to medications. The inclusion of mental health conditions like depression and anxiety disorders under the NHIS coverage was also highlighted as a crit ical advancement. Local leaders, including Mr. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, Member of Parliament for Juaboso, and Dr. Alex Ampabeng, Deputy Minister of Finance and Parliamentary candidate, echoed the importance of the NHIS and urged the public to support and sustain this essential social intervention. They also stressed the role of digital tools in facilitating easier registration and participation in the NHIS. Following the opening of the Juaboso office, similar facilities are set to commence operations in other districts, including West Gonja, Kpandai, and Savelugu, furthering the NHIA's mission to bridge the gap in healthcare accessibility across the region.