Omanghana
The Presbyterian Church of Ghana has endorsed the government’s Free Primary Healthcare Program and the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, describing the initiatives as important measures to improve access to treatment and reduce financial pressure on vulnerable households.
Speaking at the Seventh Development and Social Services Consultation Forum in Abokobi, the church’s Moderator, Rt. Rev. Dr. Abraham Nana Opare Kwakye, welcomed efforts to remove financial barriers that prevent people from seeking medical attention.
He highlighted the Free Primary Healthcare Program’s emphasis on preventive services, routine screening and basic treatment, noting its potential to improve healthcare access in rural and underserved communities.
The Moderator also commended the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, popularly known as Mahama Cares, for providing additional financial support for patients with expensive chronic conditions. The fund is intended to complement the National Health Insurance Scheme in addressing treatment costs associated with illnesses such as cancer, kidney failure, diabetes and heart disease.
The church’s support comes against the backdrop of its substantial involvement in Ghana’s healthcare system. Its network comprises 61 health facilities across 13 regions, with approximately 1,600 hospital beds and more than 4,300 staff, alongside health training colleges.
Representing the Ministry of Health at the forum, Dr. Sakyi encouraged faith-based organizations to collaborate with the government on completing and managing hospitals under the Agenda 111 initiative.
He also conveyed the ministry’s commitment to speeding up NHIS reimbursements to mission hospitals, an issue central to sustaining their services.
The forum underscored opportunities for closer cooperation between the government and faith-based healthcare providers to expand access and strengthen service delivery across the country.
Source: Omanghana
