Abiriw(ER), Oct. 01, GNA - Dr A. G. Boohene, Chairman of Board of Directors of Akwapim North Mutual Health Insurance Scheme on Monday suggested that Government should make it compulsory for Ghanaians above 18 years to register with the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS). He said "vehicles owners are required by law to take insurance cover for their vehicles, it should be compulsory for Ghanaians to register with the NHIS being the best legacy any government could leave for his people".

Dr Boohene made the suggestion when speaking at the second Annual General Meeting of Akwapim North Mutual Health Insurance Scheme at Abiriw.

He urged the people to disabuse their minds that the annual premium for the scheme was too high. Dr Boohene asked premium collectors to intensify their education campaign in the communities on the need for people to register with the scheme to access quality health care delivery. Mr Ofosu Asamoah, Deputy Eastern Regional Minister, advised clients of the scheme to guard against excessive use of health services that would threaten its sustainability.

He pledged government's commitment to assist and provide the resources needed for the smooth implementation of the scheme. Mr Asamoah said introduction of the scheme in 2004 had ensured great relief to many households that could not access quality health care delivery.

Mr B.D.K Adu, Member of Parliament for Okere, advised premium collectors against embezzling monies collected from the people towards the scheme.

He announced the payment of 50 million cedis towards the registration of 1,500 vulnerable groups in his constituency to access the scheme.

Mr Adu appealed to health providers to endeavour to attract more people to register with the scheme.