Speaker of Parliament Urges NHIS to Support Lupus Patients
The Speaker of Parliament, Mr. Alban S. K. Bagbin, has called for increased investment in the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) to strengthen healthcare delivery for individuals living with lupus and other autoimmune conditions.
Speaking during a meeting with the Oyemam Autoimmune Foundation to commemorate World Lupus Day on May 10, 2025, at Parliament House in Accra, Mr. Bagbin underscored the need for lupus care to be integrated into the NHIS. He stressed that many patients endure significant financial hardship due to the high cost of treatment for the chronic illness.
“Expanding the NHIS to cover chronic autoimmune diseases such as lupus will ease the financial burden on patients and ensure broader access to essential care,” the Speaker stated.
Lupus is a lifelong autoimmune disease that affects an estimated five million people globally. It can impact any part of the body, including the skin, joints, heart, and kidneys. Despite its seriousness, lupus remains largely misunderstood and underdiagnosed, especially in Ghana.
World Lupus Day has been observed annually since its inception in 2004 to raise awareness about the disease and advocate for patient support. Ghana ratified the World Lupus Day Proclamation in 2017, showing its commitment to recognizing the needs of people affected by the condition.
Supporting Mr. Bagbin’s call, Mrs. Emma Halm Danso, Executive Director of the Oyemam Autoimmune Foundation, emphasized the challenges lupus patients face, including frequent misdiagnosis and delayed treatment. She highlighted the urgent need for the government to include lupus medications under NHIS coverage, as many families cannot afford the out-of-pocket costs.
The Oyemam Autoimmune Foundation, a registered non-profit organization, is dedicated to providing hope and advocacy for individuals affected by autoimmune diseases in Ghana.
