Gov,t to Start Free Primary Healthcare in April

The Government of Ghana is set to begin a nationwide Free Primary Healthcare Programme in the first week of April 2026. The goal is to make basic health services easier to access and reduce the cost of healthcare for all citizens.

The Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, said the programme is meant to remove money barriers so that everyone, rich or poor, can get medical care when they need it.

“Everyone is involved,” he said. “We have spoken with doctors, pharmacists, private hospitals, CHAG, and our donor partners. We will also continue talking with chiefs and community leaders to make sure the programme works well.”

According to the minister, the policy is part of a bigger plan to improve Ghana’s health system and bring services closer to the people, especially in rural and underserved areas.

The government plans to expand CHPS compounds, improve hospital and clinic buildings, and make healthcare delivery better across the country. This means more facilities, better equipment, and improved services for patients.

The minister said public education is very important before the programme starts.

“We will create spaces for people to ask questions and give suggestions before implementation,” he explained. “Everyone must understand the policy and support it.”

Community involvement will play a big role in the success of the programme. Health officials say groups like market women, queen mothers, churches, mosques, and local leaders will help spread information and encourage people to use the services.

The government is also looking at working with telecom companies and big organisations to improve communication, send health reminders, and make access to care easier.

Digital tools, including artificial intelligence, may be used to support service delivery. However, the minister said patient safety, data protection, and ethics will be carefully protected.

The programme will first focus on the most deprived communities. The government will study how the rollout goes and use feedback to improve and expand the programme across the whole country by 2028.

Once the programme starts in April, Ghanaians with valid NHIS cards can expect better access to basic healthcare, lower hospital bills, and stronger preventive care.

The government says this is a big step toward universal health coverage and ensuring that every Ghanaian can get quality healthcare without financial stress.