Omanghana
Global healthcare company Novartis has pledged to collaborate with the Ghana Medical Trust Fund to expand access to specialized treatment for people living with chronic and serious medical conditions.
The commitment was announced during a meeting between a Novartis delegation and the management of the Trust Fund. The discussions focused on medical equipment, research, professional training and improved access to advanced healthcare.
Novartis President of Global Health and Swiss Country Director Dr Lutz Hegeman described the fund as a timely intervention capable of saving lives and addressing critical gaps in Ghana’s healthcare system.
He said the company was prepared to work closely with the fund to help more patients obtain the financial and medical support required for specialised treatment.
Novartis also expressed interest in supporting research and development and providing equipment to strengthen the country’s capacity to diagnose and treat complex conditions. Training opportunities for healthcare professionals are expected to form another part of the proposed collaboration.
The engagement builds on earlier discussions between the Ghana Medical Trust Fund and pharmaceutical companies about making essential treatments more affordable and consistently available.
Administrator of the fund Adjoa Obuobia Darko-Opoku highlighted some of its interventions since it was established, including the commissioning of a cardiac catheterisation laboratory at the National Cardiothoracic Centre of the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital.
She also cited the provision of equipment and medical consumables to the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital and the construction of cardiology centres at the Komfo Anokye and Tamale teaching hospitals.
The fund has started disbursing financial assistance through accredited treatment centres to support patients requiring costly care for conditions such as cancer, kidney disease and cardiovascular illnesses.
These interventions are intended to cover specialised services and treatments that may not be fully financed under the National Health Insurance Scheme.
Darko-Opoku said the fund was also supporting specialist training and working to address shortages of diagnostic equipment, including MRI and CT scanners, at regional health facilities.
The discussions with Novartis are expected to lead to further cooperation in medical research, equipment provision, workforce development and access to treatment. However, specific funding amounts, equipment quantities and implementation dates have not yet been publicly announced.
Source: Omanghana
