Western Regional Minister Calls for Broad Stakeholder Support for Free Primary Healthcare Policy
The Western Regional Minister, Joseph Nelson, has called for strong collaboration among stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of the government’s Free Primary Healthcare Policy.
Speaking to journalists on the sidelines of the policy’s regional launch in Takoradi, Mr. Nelson said government alone cannot achieve the objectives of the initiative and stressed the need for collective responsibility.
He explained that healthcare professionals, Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs), traditional authorities, development partners, civil society organisations, and community leaders all have a critical role to play in ensuring the policy succeeds.
“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 said.
Mr. Nelson noted that ongoing efforts to strengthen healthcare infrastructure at the district and community levels would help improve access to healthcare services and enhance health outcomes across the region. He described the Free Primary Healthcare Policy as a major intervention aimed at reducing barriers to healthcare access and improving citizens’ well-being.
He further highlighted gaps in existing healthcare coverage, noting that although the National Health Insurance Scheme remains effective, some medicines are not covered, creating challenges for patients seeking treatment.
“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, outlined the policy framework and implementation strategy, explaining that the initiative is designed to strengthen primary healthcare delivery, especially in underserved communities.
He noted that successful implementation would contribute to Ghana’s progress toward universal health coverage and improved health outcomes nationwide.
Dr. Amoako also disclosed that five districts in the Western Region are part of the first phase of the programme, with residents being registered in designated zones as implementation begins.
