Health Minister dialogue with muslim community, Dambai chiefs on free primary health care

The Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has engaged the Muslim Community and Chiefs in Dambai on the government’s Free Primary Health Care initiative being implemented under the administration of President John Dramani Mahama.

The separate engagements took place on Friday at the Dambai Central Mosque and the Oti Regional Coordinating Council, where stakeholders gathered to discuss the impact and implementation of the policy.

Addressing the Muslim community and traditional leaders, the Health Minister dismissed claims that the initiative was intended to replace the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).

According to him, the Mahama administration remains committed to strengthening the NHIS rather than creating a parallel structure.

“We are not going to set up any parallel structure against the NHIS. It is the same NHIS that will handle the disbursement,” he stated.

Mr. Akandoh also used the opportunity to appeal to the Chiefs of Dambai to ensure that health workers operating in the area are protected from local disputes and tensions.

“The lives of my health workers here are very important to me. They should not become victims of your differences."

"They are the same people who will attend to you when you need healthcare. Please, leave them out of your misunderstandings,” he appealed.

On his part, the Director-General of the Ghana Health Service, Prof. Samuel Kaba Akoriyea explained that the Free Primary Health Care initiative is designed to restore dignity to ordinary Ghanaians by removing financial barriers to healthcare access.

He stressed that the intervention would ensure that citizens no longer have to struggle or depend on financial assistance before seeking medical treatment.

According to him, the initiative reflects government’s commitment to accessible and equitable healthcare delivery across the country.

Prof. Akoriyea further joined calls for the protection of healthcare professionals, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding medical personnel in all circumstances.

“We don’t want any conflicts in Ghana, but should any happen, let’s prioritize the safety and lives of our health workers so they can continue delivering healthcare services,” he stated.

The Chiefs and leaders of the Muslim Community commended the government for introducing the initiative and pledged their support towards its success.

They assured the delegation that they would educate their subjects and community members on the benefits of the policy to encourage public participation and acceptance.

Participants at both meetings also shared their views, concerns, and expectations regarding the Free Primary Health Care initiative during the interactive sessions.

Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith