Cape coast: The Central Regional office of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has assured that it is on track to achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC) by the end of 2026. However, a significant staffing shortfall, especially in districts far from the regional capital, threatens this progress.
According to Ghana News Agency, as of April 2026, 10 out of 14 health districts in the region had achieved UHC, with efforts underway to include the remaining districts. Yet, the NHIA has expressed concerns over a severe deficit in staff, particularly in the ICT and Management Information System units, which could impede their progress.
During the 2026 first quarter review meeting, Mr. Kojo Sekyere Koi Thompson, the Acting Regional Director, highlighted that eight to ten district offices are under-resourced, with only 204 staff members serving a population of 3,200,000. This shortage is affecting operational efficiency, especially in remote districts like Upper Denkyira and Twifo-Hemang-Lower-Denkyira.
This year, the office aims to register 2,590,000 people, or 80% of the Central Region's population. However, from January to March, only 13% of the 20% target was met. Despite this slow start, April saw an improvement, achieving 18.8% of the annual goal, with optimism to surpass the 80% mark.
Mr. Thompson noted that ten districts exceeded their targets, indicating the region's potential to meet UHC objectives. He emphasized NHIA's role in supporting the government's Free Primary Health Care policy despite the challenges faced.
The Acting Regional Director acknowledged support from executive management, including computers and office upgrades, but highlighted ongoing issues with inadequate office conditions and aging vehicles affecting operations in several districts.
Mr. Stephen Yaw Oduro, Acting Deputy Director in charge of Special Projects, credited the region's performance to strategic interventions and support from religious leaders to boost membership. He stressed the importance of staff motivation through allowances to maintain performance.