President John Dramani Mahama has clarified that the government’s newly introduced Free Primary Healthcare Policy is intended to support—not replace—the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).
Speaking at the official launch of the policy in Accra on April 15, the President explained that the initiative will provide free basic healthcare services at the community level, particularly through Community-based Health Planning and Services compounds.
According to him, the policy focuses on improving access to essential healthcare by ensuring that common illnesses such as malaria and cholera are treated at no cost at the primary care level.
“At that level, everything is free of charge—from screening to treatment,” he stated, adding that CHPS facilities will be adequately equipped to handle basic medical needs within communities.
President Mahama noted that patients requiring more advanced care would be referred to district health facilities, where they can access treatment using their NHIS cards. He cited conditions such as persistent high blood sugar as examples that would necessitate referral beyond primary care.
He emphasised that the policy is designed to strengthen grassroots healthcare delivery while maintaining the relevance of the NHIS in covering more complex medical services.
“The Free Primary Healthcare complements the National Health Insurance. It is not coming to replace it, it is coming to complement it,” he reiterated.
The initiative forms part of broader efforts by the government to enhance universal health coverage and reduce the financial burden of accessing basic healthcare services, particularly for vulnerable populations.
Health policy observers say the success of the programme will depend on adequate resourcing of CHPS compounds and effective coordination with the NHIS to ensure seamless referrals and treatment continuity.
