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President John Mahama has officially launched Ghana’s Free Primary Healthcare programme, a significant step toward achieving universal health coverage in the country. The programme was introduced on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at the Shai Osudoku District Hospital in Dodowa, where the President laid out plans to improve access to essential healthcare services, particularly in underserved communities.
The initiative, which is expected to cost GH¢1.2 billion annually, will roll out in 150 underserved districts across the country as part of its first phase. The programme aims to address critical gaps in the healthcare system by expanding primary care services.
As part of the rollout, medical equipment will be provided to all beneficiary districts, and community sensitisation efforts will be ramped up through town hall meetings and stakeholder engagements. Additionally, trained volunteers will be deployed to support the existing community health workforce. More than 350 container-based service delivery points will also be established in high-traffic areas such as markets and lorry parks, bringing basic healthcare services closer to the public.
In his address, President Mahama emphasized that the Free Primary Healthcare programme is part of a broader national effort to strengthen Ghana’s healthcare system and provide universal health coverage. He explained that the initiative would complement existing interventions, particularly the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), while addressing gaps in service delivery.
“Free Primary Healthcare is not intended to replace the NHIS but to work alongside it. It will complement the existing system, not replace it,” the President stated. “You should still have your NHIS card. This initiative is specifically designed to improve primary healthcare access, while the NHIS will continue to provide coverage for higher levels of care.”
President Mahama noted that despite the progress made through the NHIS, many Ghanaians, especially in remote areas, remain inadequately covered. The new programme aims to address these disparities by providing broader access to essential healthcare services and expanding the reach of care nationwide.
The launch marks a strategic effort by the government to close longstanding gaps in Ghana’s healthcare system, ensuring that more people across the country have access to quality healthcare services.
Story by Efua Nessa
Source:Loco tv