Akandoh Launches Free Primary Healthcare in Sefwi Bodi, Says It Will Cover NCDs Excluded by NHIS

The Minister of Health, Hon. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has officially launched the government’s Free Primary Healthcare programme in Sefwi Bodi, saying it will bridge critical gaps left by the National Health Insurance Scheme.

The event was attended by Nananom, clergymen, Muslim leaders, health professionals, assembly members, and hundreds of residents from Sefwi Bodi and surrounding communities.

Addressing the gathering, Hon. Akandoh said the initiative is designed to make essential health services free at the point of care in CHPS compounds, health centres, and district hospitals.

“Healthcare is a right, not a privilege reserved for those who can pay,” the Minister said. “From today, residents in the Western north region can access basic primary care at home without paying out of pocket. I encourage all Ghanaians to embrace this initiative and use it responsibly.”

Hon. Akandoh continued that the Free Primary Healthcare programme is specifically designed to cover some non-communicable diseases that the National Health Insurance Scheme does not currently cover.

“This policy is to fill the gaps,” he explained. “There are NCDs that many Ghanaians struggle to manage because they are not covered under NHIS. Under Free Primary Healthcare, we are bringing those services closer to the people at no cost, so early detection and management can save lives and reduce long-term expenses.”

The Chief of Sefwi Bonzain and Acting President of the Sefwi Wiawso Traditional Council Nana Ofori Ahenkan II, also used the occasion to charge his fellow traditional leaders.

He urged Nananom to serve as ambassadors to promote this timely intervention in their various communities.

“Our people listen to us first,” he said. “We must take this message to every village and household, encourage early reporting to health facilities, and ensure no one is misled or left behind because of ignorance.”

Hon. Akandoh assured residents that monitoring teams will be deployed to ensure facilities are stocked and that no staff demand illegal payments for covered services.

The Minister said the policy is tied to immediate improvements in infrastructure, drug supply, and staff motivation.

“Free care must meet ready facilities,” he stated. “We are committing to equip our CHPS compounds, restock essential medicines, improve sanitation, and support our health workers to deliver with dignity.”

District Health Directors in Sefwi Bodi have been tasked to lead community sensitization, track service delivery, and report any bottlenecks to the Ministry.

The presence of Nananom, clergymen, Muslim leaders and health professionals at the launch signaled broad stakeholder support. Religious leaders prayed for its success, while health workers pledged professionalism and accountability in delivering the services.

“This will succeed only if we all play our part,” he said. “Come early to the facility, complete your treatment, and hold us accountable. With Free Primary Healthcare, we are giving Sefwi Bodi, Western North, and all of Ghana renewed hope for a healthier future.”

End.