The Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) has launched a nationwide Telehealth Service aimed at improving healthcare access for pensioners, marking what officials describe as a major step in redefining social protection and enhancing retirement dignity in Ghana.
Speaking at the official launch in Accra, Director-General of SSNIT, Mr. Kwasi Afreh Biney, said the initiative reflects the Trust’s commitment to evolving beyond its traditional role as a pension administrator to become a broader social impact institution focused on the well-being of its members.
“Today, we are launching more than a service. It is a new conversation about retirement dignity and what it brings,” Mr. Biney stated.
According to him, SSNIT has consistently been challenged to demonstrate its impact beyond the payment of pensions. He highlighted the Trust’s investments in office infrastructure, housing, student accommodation, and energy projects, but noted that the demand for greater social interventions remained. Read Also: Axle Load Operations Disrupted By Impostors
“Today, we answer that question with boldness, having listened to our stakeholders and providing a solution that offers accessibility, convenience and impact,” he said.
The telehealth service will enable pensioners to access medical consultations remotely from the comfort of their homes, regardless of their location. The initiative is being implemented through a partnership involving SSNIT, the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), Trust Hospital and pensioner associations.
Mr. Biney emphasized that rising healthcare needs, an aging population and existing access challenges made the intervention both timely and necessary. http://dailydemocratnewsonline.com
“This initiative represents an important evolution in institutional thinking. It reflects a shift from being primarily a transactional pension administrator to becoming a more holistic social impact organization concerned with the broader well-being of our members,” he said.
He noted that the service would particularly benefit pensioners living in remote communities, those managing chronic health conditions and elderly citizens who often face long journeys and extended waiting times to access healthcare.
Citing global trends, the SSNIT Director-General said digital health solutions are increasingly becoming critical tools for expanding healthcare access and improving continuity of care.
For SSNIT, he added, the initiative strengthens institutional relevance, deepens trust and reinforces its commitment to innovation in social protection.
Also speaking at the event, Supervising Director of Trust Hospital, Dr. Henry Shirazu Alhassan, praised SSNIT for identifying a critical challenge confronting pensioners and taking decisive steps to address it.
He said healthcare accessibility remains one of the biggest concerns for retirees and commended SSNIT for seeking strategic partnerships to reduce the cost, burden and inconvenience associated with accessing medical care.
“The elderly are the pillars upon which this country stands. These are people who have contributed significantly their time, energy, expertise and resources to national development. Quality healthcare in retirement is not only a social responsibility; it is a national obligation,” Dr. Alhassan stated.
To support the initiative, Trust Hospital has established a dedicated telehealth call centre and introduced toll-free telephone services to eliminate communication barriers for pensioners nationwide.
He disclosed that clinicians, support staff and call centre professionals have undergone specialized training in telehealth service delivery and the use of the NHIA’s digital health platform to ensure quality care and a seamless user experience.
Dr. Alhassan said the service would allow pensioners across the country from Tamale, Bolgatanga and Sunyani to Cape Coast, Takoradi and other communities—to access professional healthcare advice and consultations without travelling long distances.
“There are no regional borders or district limitations to accessing this healthcare service,” he stressed.
He assured pensioners that Trust Hospital is fully prepared to provide consultations, guidance, follow-up support and connections to healthcare professionals who understand their needs.
The launch of the Telehealth Service is expected to improve healthcare accessibility for thousands of pensioners while serving as a model for future health innovation and social protection initiatives in Ghana.
Officials expressed confidence that increased awareness and adoption of the service will improve healthcare outcomes and enhance the quality of life for retirees across the country.
