Mahama to launch GHc1.2bn Free Primary Health Care Programme

President John Dramani Mahama is set to launch the government’s flagship Free Primary Health Care Programme on Wednesday, April 15, at Dodowa.

The announcement was made by Kwabena Mintah Akandoh during the Government Accountability Series Press Conference held at the Presidency in Accra.

According to the Minister, the initiative—estimated to cost GH¢1.2 billion annually—will initially be rolled out in 150 underserved districts across the country, with visible impact expected within the next two months.

He disclosed that health equipment will be distributed to all beneficiary districts as part of the first phase, alongside intensive community sensitisation through town hall meetings and stakeholder engagements. Trained volunteers will also be deployed to support the delivery of services at the community level.

As part of efforts to expand access, the programme will establish over 350 container-based service delivery points in busy locations such as markets and lorry parks.

“Health workers and volunteers will not only be waiting at facilities—they will be in homes, schools, churches and workplaces, screening, educating and supporting people to stay healthy,” Mr Akandoh said.

The initiative is expected to complement existing systems like the National Health Insurance Scheme, which currently covers only about two-thirds of the population.

Mr Akandoh noted that a significant number of Ghanaians still face financial barriers to healthcare, with out-of-pocket payments accounting for roughly one-third of total health expenditure.

“In practical terms, many families are still paying out of pocket before they can receive care, exposing them to the risk of catastrophic health expenditure,” he explained.

The Free Primary Health Care Programme is aimed at reducing these burdens while improving access to essential health services, particularly in underserved communities across the country.