Ghana Health Service boss warns of primary healthcare risks without in

The Director-General of the Ghana Health Service (GHS), Dr Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, has expressed concerns that the Free Primary Health Care (FPHC) programme is at risk of collapse without increased funding. He made this call at a Free Primary Health Care durbar in Zuarungu in the Bolgatanga East District on Friday, August 14, 2026.

FPHC Implementation Hinges on Stakeholder Commitment

Dr Akoriyea emphasized the need for stronger commitment from stakeholders to ensure the effective implementation of the FPHC programme. He argued that quality healthcare should be brought closer to people rather than requiring them to travel long distances to seek treatment.

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In his address, Dr Akoriyea drew on his 18-year experience in Cuba, where he said the country's healthcare model demonstrated the importance of making medical services accessible to all. He described access to healthcare as a fundamental right, stating, "Today I feel extremely honoured to stand before you and break down something I do believe that each one of us deserve."

Mobile Health Units Offer Lessons for FPHC Expansion

Dr Akoriyea reflected on Ghana's previous efforts to take specialist services directly to underserved communities, recalling the introduction of mobile advanced medical units about 13 years ago. He said the initiative began in Accra before being expanded to other regions, where he was responsible for managing the units until 2016.

The GHS Director-General stated that his experience with the mobile health programme reinforced the importance of taking medical services to communities instead of waiting for residents to travel to health facilities. "At that time we were taking the specialized services to the people," he said.

Funding Crucial for FPHC Success

Dr Akoriyea pledged to play a leading role in translating the Free Primary Health Care policy into practical services for Ghanaians, particularly those in deprived areas. He emphasized the need for increased funding to support the implementation of the FPHC programme, stating, "I have been silently entrusted to lead this whole issue of implementing practically what we call the Free Primary Health Care."

The success of the FPHC programme depends on the commitment of stakeholders and the availability of sufficient funding. Without increased support, the programme risks collapse, leaving many communities without access to essential healthcare services.

Source: JOY