Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has revealed that the government’s free primary healthcare programme is set to commence in January 2026.
He was addressing the 23rd Annual General and Scientific Conference of the Medical Superintendent’s Group in Kwahu-Nkwatia, Eastern Region, on Tuesday, October 14.
The Minister said the initiative seeks to enhance preventive healthcare by promoting early detection and effective management of diseases.
“As part of our journey towards universal health coverage, one of the major hindrances is cost. Although we have the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), many Ghanaians, especially from certain parts of the country, are not subscribers. Currently, only about 56 percent of the population is enrolled,” he said.
Mr. Akandoh explained that the policy aims to eliminate financial barriers and expand access to essential health services, particularly in underserved areas.
“What the government is developing now is to ensure that at least primary healthcare is free across the country. This will allow us to strengthen preventive care so we can detect diseases early and manage them properly,” he added.
He further noted that a key aspect of the initiative will focus on retooling healthcare facilities nationwide, in line with the President’s earlier commitments.
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