Minister Akandoh Outlines Efficiency Standards for GH¢1.5 Billion Free Primary Health Care Initiative

The Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has called for the prudent management of resources to ensure the success of the government’s Free Primary Health Care (FPHC) program. Speaking at the 33rd Annual General Conference of the District Directors of Health Services in Bolgatanga, the Minister emphasized that the initiative is supported by an allocation of GH¢1.5 billion, funded entirely from domestic resources. Akandoh warned that the success of the policy depends heavily on the efficient use of these funds and the diligence of district directors, urging them to prevent mismanagement that could ‘kill’ the program in its early stages.

To support the rollout, the Ministry has procured over 25,500 pieces of medical equipment, alongside essential logistics such as motorbikes and tricycles, to enhance service delivery in remote areas. The FPHC program is designed with a strong focus on disease prevention and health promotion rather than just curative care. This logistical boost is intended to empower local health directorates to implement policies more effectively, ensuring that quality healthcare reaches the doorstep of every Ghanaian regardless of their financial status.

Supporting this vision, Deputy Minister of Health Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah has advocated for a research-driven approach to primary healthcare. At the 7th Annual Nursing and Midwifery Leaders and Managers Conference, she stressed the importance of translating scientific research into practical, community-level applications. Dr. Ayensu-Danquah highlighted the critical role of nurses and midwives in the early identification of health conditions and called for the integration of evidence-based practices to improve health outcomes across the country.

This broad national effort to modernize healthcare delivery is also being reinforced by legislative and human rights advocacy. Speaker of Parliament Rt. Hon. Alban Kingsford Bagbin recently re-inaugurated the African Commission of Health and Human Rights Promoters, contributing GH¢100,000 toward its endowment fund. The commission aims to tackle systemic barriers to health, including mental health issues and the public health impacts of illegal mining. Together, these administrative, scientific, and advocacy-led initiatives form a comprehensive strategy to secure sustainable healthcare and social justice for all citizens.