President John Dramani Mahama has clarified that the government’s Free Primary Healthcare Policy is designed to work alongside, rather than replace, the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).
Speaking at the official launch of the policy in Accra on Wednesday, April 15, the President explained that primary healthcare services at the community level will be provided free of charge under the new policy.
He noted that basic screenings and treatment for common illnesses such as malaria and cholera will be handled at Community-based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) compounds without any cost to patients.
“The Free Primary Healthcare complements the National Health Insurance… you go, the screening, everything is free of charge,” he said.
President Mahama added that cases requiring more advanced medical attention will be referred to higher-level facilities, where patients can then access treatment using their NHIS cards.
“For instance, if your blood sugar remains high after initial checks, you will be referred to the district level where you can use your NHIS card to receive treatment and medication,” he explained.
He emphasised that the policy is intended to strengthen healthcare delivery at the grassroots level while ensuring continuity of care through the existing insurance system.
“The Free Primary Healthcare is complementary to the National Health Insurance. It is not coming to replace it, it is coming to complement it,” the President reiterated.
The initiative forms part of broader efforts to expand access to healthcare and improve health outcomes across the country.
Source:3news.com
