The Chief Executive Officer of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), Dr. Victor Asare Bampoe, has provided further clarification on Ghana’s newly launched Free Primary Healthcare Programme, outlining the policy direction, structure, and expected impact on the country’s health system.

The programme, launched by President John Dramani Mahama, has generated significant public discussion, with stakeholders seeking clarity on its scope and implementation.

Addressing some of the concerns, Dr. Bampoe explained that the initiative is not a rebranding of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), but rather a strategic shift in how healthcare services are financed and accessed in Ghana.

According to him, the NHIS has historically focused on curative care, with preventive and promotive services often underfunded or dependent on external support.

He noted that the new programme seeks to correct this imbalance by explicitly defining and funding preventive services such as screenings, early detection, and community outreach.

He added that the policy introduces a population-based payment model, moving away from the traditional illness-driven financing system to a more proactive approach aimed at managing public health risks before they escalate.

Dr. Bampoe further highlighted a key change under the programme—removing barriers to accessing primary healthcare at the first point of contact.

He explained that individuals will be able to receive initial services regardless of their NHIS enrolment status, allowing for early diagnosis and improved health outcomes.

“This approach ensures that access to care is no longer delayed by administrative or financial constraints, while also encouraging enrolment into the NHIS through the system itself,” he noted.

On concerns about the scope of the programme, Dr. Bampoe acknowledged that expectations must be managed, stressing that implementation will be phased. He said the first phase will prioritise preventive services delivered through Community-based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) compounds, health centres, and polyclinics, while curative services will continue under existing NHIS arrangements.

He also emphasized that the success of the programme will depend on effective coordination across financing, staffing, medicines, and service delivery systems.

To address this, the policy includes clearly defined service packages, dedicated funding streams, and integration with NHIS monitoring systems to ensure accountability.

On the naming of the programme, Dr. Bampoe said while alternative descriptions may exist, the term “Free Primary Healthcare” reflects the broader goal of repositioning primary healthcare at the centre of Ghana’s health system and advancing the country’s progress toward universal health coverage.

He concluded that the initiative represents a long-term reform aimed at strengthening preventive care, improving access, and building a more resilient and efficient healthcare system.