The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has inaugurated a new branch office at Apowa in the Ahanta West Municipality of the Western Region as part of efforts to improve access to National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) services.

The inauguration ceremony was led by the Member of Parliament for Ahanta West, Mavis Kuukua Bissue, who said the new office would help expand NHIS accessibility and improve healthcare delivery within the municipality.

Speaking at the event, the Acting Western Regional Director of the NHIA, Joseph Meneabeh Akpoh, commended the Ahantaman district management team for its outstanding performance, which saw the district ranked first in the region and second nationally on the NHIS league table for the first quarter of 2026.

He attributed the achievement to the dedication, resilience and commitment of staff and called for intensified efforts to increase active NHIS membership across the region.

Mr. Akpoh also highlighted the implementation of the government’s Free Primary Health Care policy and reiterated management’s zero tolerance for illegal charges within the Scheme.

He further informed the public about the ongoing free NHIS registration and membership renewal exercise, as well as the waiver of the one-month waiting period for new and renewed members from April 15 to May 31, 2026.

The Ahantaman NHIS District Manager, Lawrence Efunwole Khinde, expressed appreciation to the Member of Parliament and all stakeholders whose support contributed to the successful establishment of the branch office.

According to him, the facility would serve residents of Apowa and neighbouring communities who previously had to travel to Agona Nkwanta to access NHIS registration and renewal services.

Hon. Bissue noted that the office is expected to significantly improve NHIS enrolment and renewal rates while enhancing customer support services that require direct staff assistance.

She also urged NHIS staff to maintain professionalism and mutual respect in the discharge of their duties.

The Municipal Director of Health Services, Emmanuel Badiana, described the facility as a major step toward achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in the municipality.

Meanwhile, the Apowa Queen Mother, Nana Efiba Foliba II, encouraged residents to support and protect the facility while cooperating with staff to ensure efficient service delivery.

During the ceremony, the Member of Parliament, corporate organisations and some individuals were presented with citations in recognition of their financial and logistical support toward the establishment of the office.

Residents of Apowa welcomed the new facility, expressing relief over the reduction in the long-distance travel previously required to access NHIS services.