The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has suspended three pharmacies from participating in the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) over suspected fraudulent claims and irregular service transactions.
In a public notice issued on Thursday, May 14, the Authority announced the immediate temporary suspension of DELDEM PHARMA LIMITED, PARAMEDICA PHARMACY and DESH CHEMIST following a routine claims verification exercise.
According to the NHIA, investigations uncovered “material irregularities in claims and service transactions” linked to the three facilities, raising “reasonable suspicion of fraud and abuse” under the NHIS Provider Service Agreement.
The Authority stated that the suspension took effect on May 14 and means the affected pharmacies can no longer provide services or dispense medicines under the NHIS until further notice.
The NHIA advised NHIS members seeking pharmaceutical services to visit other accredited providers across the country while investigations continue.
The Authority also issued a warning to all accredited healthcare providers, stressing that fraudulent practices that threaten the sustainability of the NHIS would not be tolerated.
It further reminded providers that defrauding or attempting to defraud the Scheme constitutes a criminal offence punishable by a fine, imprisonment of up to 10 years, or both.
The statement, signed by NHIA Chief Executive Dr. Victor Asare Bampoe, reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and the prudent use of public funds in delivering quality healthcare services across Ghana.