The Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, says Ghana’s new Free Primary Healthcare policy is aimed at expanding access to essential medical services for millions of citizens who are currently not covered by the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).
Speaking on the Citi Breakfast Show on Wednesday, April 22, the Minister explained that the initiative responds to persistent gaps in health insurance coverage, which leave a substantial number of Ghanaians paying out-of-pocket for basic healthcare.
He noted that although the NHIS has improved access over the years, coverage remains incomplete, with a significant proportion of the population still outside the scheme.
According to him, current estimates show that NHIS coverage stands at about 66 percent, meaning over 12 million Ghanaians are not enrolled and therefore cannot fully benefit from insured healthcare services.
He cautioned against assuming universal coverage, stressing that such a perception could lead to gaps in planning and service delivery.
Mr Akandoh explained that the NHIS primarily serves its subscribers, and those outside the system often face financial barriers when seeking even basic medical attention.
The Minister said the new Free Primary Healthcare policy is designed to address this challenge by ensuring that access to frontline health services is not dependent on insurance status.
Under the initiative, basic healthcare services will be made available at community-based facilities, including clinics, health centres, and CHPS compounds, which serve as the first point of care in most communities.
He added that the policy is expected to reduce delays in seeking treatment, improve early diagnosis, and ease the financial burden on households, particularly among vulnerable populations.
The government sees the reform as part of broader efforts to strengthen preventive care and move toward more inclusive healthcare delivery nationwide.
