Presidential aide, Dr Sammy Ayeh, says the country’s new free primary healthcare policy is already helping to prevent disease, reduce hospital admissions and improve access to basic services.
Speaking on Metro TV’s Good Morning Ghana programme with host Moro Awudu on Thursday, April 16, Dr Ayeh said the initiative marks a shift from treating illness to stopping it before it starts.
“Primary healthcare isn’t just about treating illnesses it’s about preventing them and promoting overall wellness,” he said.
He added that making services free at the point of delivery was empowering communities and easing pressure on hospitals.
“By making services free, we are reducing hospital admissions and saving lives,” he said.
The policy, launched by President John Mahama on 15th April, provides free basic medical services at community clinics, CHPS compounds and polyclinics across the country.
Patients do not need a National Health Insurance Scheme card but must present valid identification.
The government says the programme, already being rolled out in more than 100 districts, is designed to strengthen preventive care and move Ghana closer to universal health coverage.
Dr Ayeh described the initiative as a significant step in improving healthcare delivery, saying it would expand access and encourage early treatment, particularly in underserved communities.
Story by Nana Akua Amponsah || Metro Digital
