Free NHIA 'STORM' drive runs until May 31 - NHIA CEO unveils plan

The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has announced the STORM initiative, which aims to bring free National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) registration directly to communities across Ghana.

During a press conference on May 4, 2026, NHIA CEO Dr Victor Asare Bampoe emphasised the Authority's commitment to ensuring that the STORM initiative reaches every corner of the country.

“Our NHIA staff in all regional and district offices are mobilised and actively engaging with communities. We are not waiting for people to come to us but are taking our services directly to them,” Dr Bampoe stated.



The outreach efforts involve visits to markets, commercial centers, lorry parks, transport terminals, churches, mosques, schools, universities, workplaces, offices, and both peri-urban and rural communities.

To maximise awareness and encourage participation, the NHIA is collaborating closely with district offices, community leaders, traditional authorities, and civil society organisations.

Where possible, NHIA registration and renewal activities are being co-located with Family Planning and Health Care (FPHC) outreach and health screening events.

“The message is simple and clear: Come. Register. Renew. It is free. It is immediate. And it could save your life,” Dr Bampoe asserted.

The STORM initiative officially began on April 15, 2026, and is set to continue until May 31, 2026. With just weeks remaining, individuals can register for the NHIS for the first time or renew their expired cards at no cost and without waiting.

“You can walk out of your district office, dial *929#, or tap the app—and you are covered. Immediately. For free,” he explained.



Dr Bampoe encouraged all Ghanaians to take advantage of this opportunity, “Do it for yourself. Do it for your family. Do it for your children. Do it for your elderly parents. No Ghanaian should be caught without health coverage when this window is freely available to all.”

He also called on media partners for support in disseminating this important message, “Every community in Ghana must know about STORM. Every family must understand that the NHIS card is their gateway to free primary healthcare, specialist referrals, and the protection of the Ghana Medical Trust Fund.”

“Together, we can move Ghana decisively closer to Universal Health Coverage,” he concluded.



NAD/AM

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