The government of Ghana has launched a new Free Primary Healthcare (FPHC) policy. This initiative aims to ensure all Ghanaians can access health services. It covers preventive, diagnostic, and curative care. The policy targets 150 underserved districts across the nation. Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh announced the policy on May 9, 2026. The launch took place in Dambai, Oti Region.
The FPHC policy seeks to remove financial and geographical barriers. Many people delay seeking medical help due to these issues. The first phase focuses on community-level facilities. Beneficiaries must present a valid National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) card. The included services cover common illnesses like malaria and cholera. Basic health screenings are also part of the package. Maternal and child healthcare is a key component. The policy also addresses non-communicable diseases. These include hypertension and diabetes. Treatment will be available at CHPS compounds and health centres.
This policy intends to promote early disease detection. It aims to reduce complications and prevent deaths. The initiative directly tackles the "no money syndrome." This is where financial difficulties cause people to delay treatment. Such delays often lead to more severe health problems. Minister Akandoh noted the rise in non-communicable diseases. He linked this to unhealthy diets and inactivity. The government is also distributing tricycles and motorbikes. These are not ambulances. They will help health workers reach remote areas. This supports delivering care to vulnerable populations.
Dr. Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, Director-General of the Ghana Health Service, called for community support. He urged chiefs and leaders to embrace the policy. This is crucial to curb diseases like typhoid. He highlighted the spread of water-related infections in the Oti Region. The FPHC policy should strengthen health delivery there. Minister Akandoh stressed collaboration. Health professionals, traditional authorities, and leaders must work together. This ensures the program's success and sustainability.
The Oti Regional Minister, John Kwadwo Gyapong, pledged full support. The Regional Coordinating Council will back the policy's implementation. He encouraged health workers to serve with dedication. Chiefs and community members are urged to champion preventive care. Daasebre Attamafowiese Kwame Bonja II, Paramount Chief of the Chonke Traditional Area, commended the government. He sees the FPHC policy as a timely intervention. It will ease financial burdens on households, especially in rural areas. Chiefs will help spread accurate information. They will also support health workers during the rollout.