The Ministry of Health Ghana says the free primary health care programme launched this week will not undermine the National Health Insurance Scheme, as funding has already been secured and approved by Parliament. The assurance comes amid public concerns about the sustainability of major health interventions and their impact on existing systems.

At the launch of the Primary Health Care Programme, John Dramani Mahama underscored government’s commitment to strengthening grassroots healthcare systems as a foundation for national well-being. The initiative reflects a renewed focus on preventive care and equitable access to essential health services across the country.

The Ministry of Health Ghana has announced the commencement of validation for qualified health professionals as part of its recruitment and posting process. The exercise is part of ongoing efforts to streamline recruitment, improve transparency, and ensure that only eligible professionals are deployed into the country’s health system.

In addition to the over 24,000 pieces of hospital equipment set to be distributed to health facilities nationwide under the Free Primary Health Care Programme, government will also establish 350 Health Posts in strategic public locations such as bus stations, markets, and schools. The initiative is aimed at bringing basic healthcare services closer to the population, particularly the estimated 35% of Ghanaians who are not enrolled on the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).

Health workers will begin visiting homes, workplaces, and other community spaces in selected underserved districts to screen Ghanaians for various diseases under the #FreePrimaryHealthCare programme. This outreach approach is designed to bring essential health services closer to the people, particularly those who may face barriers in accessing healthcare facilities due to distance, cost, or limited resources.

Ghana is facing a growing public health crisis, with non-communicable diseases (NCDs) now accounting for nearly half of all deaths, according to the Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh. The alarming trend signals a major shift in the country’s disease burden and places increasing pressure on the healthcare system.

The Ministry of Health has revealed that the government will require at least GH₵1.2 billion annually to implement its ambitious Free Primary Healthcare policy, underscoring the scale of investment needed to transform healthcare delivery across the country.

The Government of Ghana has procured 24,534 pieces of essential medical equipment as part of preparations toward the rollout of its flagship Free Primary Healthcare policy, according to the Ministry of Health.

Ghana is set to take a significant launch toward achieving universal access to quality healthcare as President John Dramani Mahama prepares to officially launch the Free Primary Health Care Programme on April 15.

The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has issued an urgent public health alert following the discovery of falsified HIV diagnostic kits circulating in Ghana, warning of the potential risk of inaccurate test results and delayed treatment.