Government is set to begin the first phase of its Free Primary Healthcare initiative in 150 underserved districts across Ghana, with an official launch scheduled for April 15, 2026.
The announcement was made by Mr Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, the Minister for Health during a media engagement under the Government Accountability Series, as monitored by ShineMeGh.com.
The policy is expected to provide free access to essential health services at Community-based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) compounds, health centres, and polyclinics.
According to the Minister, services to be covered include: Screening for conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and cancer, maternal and child healthcare, immunisation services, treatment for common illnesses like malaria and respiratory infections.
Despite the introduction of free services at the primary level, Mr Akandoh emphasized that the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) will continue to play a key role, particularly for referrals and specialised treatment at higher-level facilities such as district, regional, and teaching hospitals.
The initiative aims to shift Ghana’s healthcare system toward prevention rather than treatment.
The Minister explained that health workers will intensify community outreach through home visits, school programmes, and public education campaigns to ensure broader access, especially for individuals who may not regularly visit health facilities.
To support the rollout, government has procured more than 24,000 pieces of medical equipment.
These include incubators, diagnostic devices, hospital beds, and ultrasound machines, all aimed at improving service delivery at the primary healthcare level.
The programme will be implemented gradually between 2026 and 2028, with the goal of achieving nationwide coverage.
The initiative is expected to be officially launched by President John Dramani Mahama as part of broader efforts to improve access to healthcare and strengthen Ghana’s health system.
Officials say the rollout marks a significant step toward universal health coverage, with a strong emphasis on early detection, prevention, and equitable access to basic healthcare services across the country.
Story by: Philip Kendriz Elikem
