Western Regional Minister Calls For Broad Stakeholder Support To Deliver Free Primary.
The Western Regional Minister, Joseph Nelson, has underscored the need for collective action and stakeholder collaboration to ensure the successful implementation of the government’s Free Primary Healthcare Policy.
Speaking to journalists on the sidelines of the Western Regional launch of the policy in Takoradi, Mr. Nelson stressed that government efforts alone would not be sufficient to achieve the policy’s objectives.
According to him, the active involvement of healthcare professionals, Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs), traditional authorities, development partners, civil society organisations, and community leaders will be critical to the policy’s success.
“The government cannot achieve these objectives alone.
We need the support and commitment of all stakeholders to ensure that quality primary healthcare services become accessible to every Ghanaian, regardless of where they live,” he stated.
Mr. Nelson noted that ongoing efforts to strengthen healthcare infrastructure at both the district and community levels would significantly improve access to healthcare services and enhance health outcomes across the region.
He described the Free Primary Healthcare Policy as a transformative intervention aimed at reducing barriers to healthcare access and improving the well-being of citizens.
He emphasised that National Health Insurance has been highly effective. However, there are still instances where people struggle to access medication, as healthcare professionals confirm that some drugs are not covered by the National Health Insurance.
Hon. Joseph Nelson asserted that everyone must unite behind this effort; in the meantime, it is crucial for the public to fully understand the Free Primary Healthcare Policy.
“The Western Regional Coordinating Council remains committed to supporting this initiative.
We will continue to work closely with all partners to ensure that the policy achieves its intended impact in our communities,” he added.
At the launch, the District Director of Health Services for Ellembelle, Dr. Augustine Kwesi Amoako, provided stakeholders with an overview of the policy framework and its implementation strategy.
Dr. Amoako explained that the initiative is designed to strengthen primary healthcare delivery by improving access to essential health services, particularly for vulnerable populations and residents in underserved communities.
He noted that the successful implementation of the policy would contribute significantly to the country’s efforts towards achieving universal health coverage and improving healthcare outcomes nationwide.
Dr Amoako further explained that in the Western Region, there are 5 Districts being part of the first phase of the Free Primary Healthcare, with registration of residents in zones.
Story By: *Benjamin Bray – “Great Pablo”*, Western Region.
