WR GNAT discusses NHIS

Takoradi, Oct 9, GNA - Members of the Western Region branch of the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), has called on the government to continue discussions with stakeholders to incorporate important recommendations into the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) even though the Bill has been passed.

They said this would dispel doubts, fears and apprehension for all to cooperate in the establishment of a viable scheme in the country. They reached the consensus at a meeting in Takoradi on Wednesday to discuss GNAT's position on the scheme.

Mr John Amissah, Regional Secretary of the Association, said even though GNAT was not against the scheme, certain issues must be clarified to allay the genuine fears of members.

Their fears include the fate of SSNIT and the future of the workers pension scheme, the status of existing health care facilities for workers when the NHIS takes off and the definition of "family" in terms of size and age limit under the scheme.

Mr Amissah said the term "basic health care service" in the law is not clear and must be fully defined.

He said workers have genuine fears for the future of SSNIT because "the beautiful picture, in which SSNIT pension was cast" during its introduction in 1972 and the realities on the ground continue to haunt workers.

Mr Latif Aidoo, GNAT District Secretary for Mpohor-Wassa East, said the deduction of two and half percent of workers contribution to SSNIT to fund the scheme would worsen the problems at SSNIT since it was already grappling with "gross inefficiency".

He noted that workers have not benefited from SSNIT operations over the years and cited the housing scheme for workers that benefited "the rich and well to do in the society".

Mr Michael Biney, Shama-Ahanta East Metropolitan GNAT Secretary, noted that while the NHIS is a venture worth pursuing, it had started on a false note and appealed to the government to be more accommodating on the issue.

Mr George Kubloito, Regional First Trustee, called on members of Similar meetings would be held in the districts.