“Strengthening primary healthcare key to reducing hospital burden” — Health Minister

The Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has reiterated government’s commitment to transforming Ghana’s healthcare system through a strong emphasis on primary healthcare, describing it as the most effective strategy to reduce avoidable hospital admissions and improve overall system efficiency.

Speaking at the Government Accountability Series in Accra on Monday, Mr Akandoh said the introduction of free primary healthcare is a deliberate policy shift aimed at moving the country away from a reactive, emergency-driven model toward a preventive and people-centred approach.

According to the Minister, the overreliance on emergency care has contributed significantly to the persistent congestion in major health facilities, often resulting in the widely reported “no bed syndrome.”

He stressed that strengthening primary healthcare services across the country will ensure early detection and management of diseases before they escalate into critical conditions requiring hospitalisation.

“Strengthening primary healthcare delivery will ultimately reduce avoidable hospital admissions and improve overall system efficiency,” Mr Akandoh stated.

He explained that routine medical check-ups must become a cultural norm, noting that many life-threatening conditions can be prevented or effectively managed when detected early.

By encouraging regular visits to health facilities, the policy aims to reduce the number of patients presenting with advanced illnesses at emergency units.

Mr Akandoh further highlighted that the initiative is not only about accessibility but also about reducing the financial and operational burden on tertiary health institutions.

He argued that expanding hospital infrastructure alone cannot resolve the systemic challenges if preventive care is not prioritised.

As part of broader reforms, the Minister disclosed that government is investing in digital health systems to improve coordination and efficiency within the sector.

This includes the development of a centralised command centre that will provide real-time data on bed availability across major hospitals, enabling faster decision-making and better patient management.

He noted that facilities such as the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital and the University of Ghana Medical Centre will be integrated into the system, allowing health authorities to monitor capacity and respond promptly to emergencies.

Additionally, plans are underway to establish an emergency coordination centre to further strengthen response mechanisms and ensure patients receive timely care at appropriate facilities.

Mr Akandoh revealed that the government has completed the financial projections for the programme, estimating that approximately GH¢1.2 billion will be required annually to sustain the free primary healthcare policy.

He emphasised that the initiative is well-structured and backed by thorough planning.

“This is not an ad hoc programme. We have done our projections and we are confident in the direction we are taking,” he assured.

The Health Minister maintained that the long-term vision is to build a resilient and integrated healthcare system that prioritises prevention, enhances service delivery at the community level, and significantly reduces pressure on hospitals.

He concluded that by investing in primary healthcare, Ghana stands to achieve improved health outcomes, reduced healthcare costs, and a more efficient system capable of meeting the needs of its growing population.

Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith