Minister for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has announced that President John Dramani Mahama will officially launch the Free Primary Healthcare Programme on Wednesday, April 15, marking a major step toward fulfilling one of the administration’s flagship campaign promises.
The initiative aims to deliver universal primary healthcare access to all Ghanaians, with a particular focus on the 35% of the population currently excluded from the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).
By removing financial barriers at the primary care level, the programme seeks to reduce out-of-pocket expenses, improve early disease detection, and bolster grassroots health services nationwide.
In a detailed Facebook post shared on Good Friday, Ofosu revealed that he joined Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh for an inspection of 24,534 pieces of advanced medical equipment.
This massive procurement, set for distribution to health facilities across the country starting next week, will directly support the programme’s rollout.
The equipment list underscores a comprehensive upgrade to primary care infrastructure:
• X-ray machines for diagnostic imaging.
• Vital sign monitors to track blood pressure, temperature, and other essentials.
• Glucometers for diabetes screening and blood sugar monitoring.
• Baby incubators, radiant warmers, and oxygen concentrators to aid newborn resuscitation.
• Patient monitors for real-time vital tracking.
• Infusion devices for precise medication delivery.
• Laboratory analysers for on-site testing.
• Delivery beds to enhance maternal care.
• Hospital beds for patient comfort and capacity.
• Ultrasound machines for prenatal and general diagnostics.
“We inspected 24,534 pieces of medical equipment to be distributed from next week to health facilities across the country to facilitate the role out of the Free Primary Healthcare programme,” Ofosu wrote.
First Lady Lordina Dramani Mahama, during the commissioning of the newly renovated facility in Anyima by her foundation, hinted that her husband, President John Dramani Mahama, will soon launch the Free Primary Health Care Programme.
The Free Primary Healthcare Programme has been a key NDC promise, featured in both their 2020 and 2024 manifestos.
The announcement comes amid ongoing efforts to strengthen Ghana’s health sector post-COVID-19, where primary care gaps have long strained hospitals and increased mortality from preventable conditions like maternal complications and diabetes.
