Free Primary Healthcare Rollout to Begin in 150 Districts
Government targets underserved communities with phased implementation plan
The Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has announced that the government’s Free Primary Healthcare initiative will be implemented in phases, beginning with underserved districts across the country.
According to him, the first phase of the programme will cover 150 out of Ghana’s 261 districts, with priority given to areas that have limited access to healthcare services.
Speaking in an interview on TV3 New Day’s The Big Issue on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, the Minister explained that the phased rollout will allow the government to monitor progress, resolve operational challenges, and fine-tune the implementation strategy before expanding it nationwide.
He added that selected districts from each region will be included in the initial phase to ensure a fair distribution of resources while focusing on communities most in need.
Mr. Akandoh noted that insights gained from the first phase will inform subsequent stages of the programme, as government works to improve access to quality healthcare services across the country.
The Free Primary Healthcare initiative forms part of broader efforts to strengthen Ghana’s health system and reduce inequalities in access to essential medical services.
The policy aims to eliminate user fees at the point of care and provide a package of essential services, with a strong emphasis on preventive, promotive, and basic curative healthcare, particularly for vulnerable populations.
It is also expected to enhance financial protection, expand healthcare access, and improve the overall quality of service delivery nationwide.
