Healthcare must reach every Ghanaian regardless of location - Health Minister

Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, the Minister of Health, reaffirmed the government's commitment to ensuring that every Ghanaian has access to quality healthcare, regardless of location or income, through the Free Primary Healthcare (FPHC) policy. Speaking at the launch of the FPHC programme in Dambai of the Oti Region on May 9, 2026, Mr. Akandoh said the initiative was aimed at removing both financial and geographical barriers that prevent many people from seeking timely medical attention.

The first phase of the programme targets 150 underserved districts across the country and would provide free preventive, diagnostic, and curative healthcare services at community-level facilities. Beneficiaries would access the services free of charge upon presenting a valid National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) card. The healthcare package includes treatment for malaria and cholera, basic health screenings, maternal and child healthcare services and the management of non-communicable diseases such as hypertension and diabetes at CHPS compounds and health centres. Mr. Akandoh dismissed claims that the tricycles and motorbikes being distributed were intended to serve as ambulances, explaining that the logistics were meant to support health workers in reaching hard-to-access communities and delivering healthcare services to vulnerable populations.

Dr. Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, the Director-General of the Ghana Health Service, called on chiefs, community leaders, assembly members and the public to support and take ownership of the policy to help curb typhoid and other health conditions in the region. The Oti Regional Minister, Mr. John Kwadwo Gyapong, assured that the Regional Coordinating Council would fully support the implementation of the policy. Daasebre Attamafowiese Kwame Bonja II, Paramount Chief of the Chonke Traditional Area, pledged the support of traditional authorities towards its successful implementation.