Free primary healthcare to prevent emergencies and reduce 'No Bed Syndrome'- Health Minister
Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, Minister for Health, said on Monday in Accra that the government's free primary healthcare policy is aimed at shifting Ghana's health system from a reactive, emergency-driven model to a preventive one. Mr. Akandoh said, "At least, every human being must visit health facilities at one point or another. At least, you must be doing a routine check-up."
Mr. Akandoh stated that the initiative is directly linked to efforts to address the country's recurring "no bed syndrome" in major hospitals. The government is also investing in digital systems to improve visibility of hospital bed availability across the country. A command centre is being developed to provide real-time data on available beds in regional and teaching hospitals, including Korle Bu Teaching Hospital and University of Ghana Medical Centre.
The government has completed costing for the programme, estimating that at least GH¢1.2 billion annually will be required to sustain the initiative. Mr. Akandoh said, "This is not an ad hoc programme. We have thought through it, we have done our projections, and we know what we are doing."
Quick Summary
Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh says the government is implementing a free primary healthcare policy. The goal is to shift the focus to prevention - and that could have implications for hospitals.
Summary - read the full story for complete context.
Image: MyJoyOnline
GhanaFront aggregates news from trusted sources. Click to read the original article.
Keywords
Explore related tagsMore from MyJoyOnline
Related Stories
More from Health
Free Primary Healthcare won't cover referrals to higher facilities - Health Minister
Worried about healthcare costs after the free primary healthcare launch? Here's what you need to know about referrals-
2h ago•3 min read
Sissala East MP commits funds to boost healthcare infrastructure
An MP is making major financial commitments to local healthcare - but will it be enough?
10h ago•3 min read
IMANI Africa President urges greater awareness and support for Parkinson's Disease patients
IMANI's Franklin Cudjoe is calling for more Parkinson's support. What challenges do patients in Ghana face?
22h ago•2 min read
MTN Momo staff walk to promote wellness and fitness
MMFL staff took to the mountains for a wellness walk - but the destination wasn't the only goal.
1d ago•2 min read
