Coverage of childhood cancer treatment under the Ghanaian National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) has been a policy discussion recently. To improve priority setting, Ghana introduced and used health technology assessment (HTA) processes to guide the resource allocation. To understand the role of stakeholders throughout the HTA lifecycle and for this decision, a stakeholder mapping and engagement was undertaken. We share our results of this mapping and analysis for improving management and financing of childhood cancers in Ghana.

We used two main approaches; first, we undertook a systematic policy documents and literature review of stakeholders relevant in childhood cancer management and financing in Ghana. This was followed by a stakeholder engagement workshop of key stakeholders from the Ministry of Health, Ghana Health Service (GHS), National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), academia, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), private sector, teaching hospitals, patient groups, and civil society organizations. Participation was done in-person and virtual. Questions were moderated using a focus group discussion approach where responses were recorded. Data were analysed using synthesis and development of themes. Mapping of stakeholders was done using Mendelow’s power-interest grid.

The mapping identified eight key stakeholders in different roles: policy makers (Ministry of Health), payer (NHIA), healthcare providers (teaching hospitals, GHS, private hospitals), pharmaceutical companies, patient group (Ghana Parents Association for Childhood Cancers), and advocacy group (NGOs). Analysis showed that power and interest are concentrated with Ministry of Health and NHIA primarily because of control over resources. Also, while healthcare providers, patient groups, and advocacy groups have high interest, their power ranges from low to moderate. Further analysis of data from the workshop revealed that inability to pay for high cost of treatment leads to treatment abandonment. Payment for treatment was mainly out-of-pocket and by donation from philanthropist.

There was a strong will from stakeholders to extend coverage of the NHIS to childhood cancers in Ghana. Stakeholder engagement is a powerful tool and should be an integral part of every HTA process.