The Free Primary Healthcare (FPHC) Task Force has reviewed progress and mapped out key strategies for the successful rollout of the government’s flagship Free Primary Healthcare policy. The high-level meeting, held at the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) Head Office in Accra, brought together major stakeholders, including the Ministry of Health, Ghana Health Service (GHS), NHIA, and the Christian Health Association of Ghana (CHAG).
Co-Chairperson of the Task Force and NHIA Deputy Chief Executive (Operations), Dr. Senanu Djokoto, underscored the importance of separating budgeting from service package costing.
“The service package will be analysed by experts across all levels, from community practitioners to headquarters. Strategic Health Purchasing will lead a detailed review to determine what is realistic and implementable.”
Representing CHAG, Dr. James Duah, Deputy Executive Director, advised that the Technical Committee take a phased approach to implementation.
“We may have to focus on the CHPS Zones initially, and along the line, take lessons that will help us scale up.”
Stephen Bewong, Deputy Director at NHIA’s Management Information Systems Directorate, revealed that a data-driven referral system is being developed to ensure seamless access to care.
“At the CHPS level, you will have free coverage. If you require a service beyond CHPS, your entry is a referral chit under the Free Primary Healthcare package, which will give you access.”
Co-Chairperson of the Task Force and Acting Deputy Director-General of GHS, Dr. Caroline Reindorf Amissah, highlighted the importance of an efficient referral pathway.
“We should be able to create a system where people move through the referral pathway without any problems. That is where the NHIS card may come in, but you may not necessarily be paying a premium.”
The Free Primary Healthcare policy aims to provide affordable, equitable, and quality healthcare services to vulnerable populations. Stakeholders at the meeting expressed optimism that with careful planning, phased implementation, and strong collaboration, the initiative will significantly improve healthcare access across Ghana.
By: Daniel Orlando/newsalertgh.com
