In a bold step toward improving healthcare access for chronic disease patients in Ghana, the government has inaugurated a taskforce to operationalize the Ghana Medical Care Trust Fund, popularly known as the ‘Mahama Cares Initiative.’ This initiative is poised to bridge the financial gap in the treatment of chronic illnesses, including cancer, kidney diseases, and cardiovascular conditions.
The nine-member taskforce, chaired by Rev. Prof. Emeritus Seth Ayettey, has been given a five-week deadline to submit recommendations on establishing the fund as a statutory entity. The team is tasked with formulating policies, creating sustainable funding models, and identifying infrastructure needs to ensure better accessibility and affordability of life-saving treatments.
Other distinguished members of the taskforce include Prof. Emeritus Fred Binka, Prof. Margaret Kweku, Dr. Alfred Doku, Dr. Randolph Nsor-Ambala, Dr. Anthony Seddoh, Lawyer Anna Pearl Akiwumi Siriboe, and Dr. Belinda Afriyie, a Public Health Consultant. Their collective expertise is expected to guide the initiative toward tangible and impactful results.
Speaking at the inauguration, the Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, emphasized the critical need for the initiative. He acknowledged the limitations of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) in addressing the high costs of specialized treatments for chronic diseases.
“Access to quality healthcare is not a privilege but a fundamental right,” the Minister stated. “Chronic illnesses such as cancer, kidney disease, and heart conditions impose unbearable financial strain on families. While the NHIS has been instrumental in providing coverage for many health needs, it does not fully address the high costs of specialized treatments. This leaves many Ghanaians to struggle or face preventable loss of life.”
He further described the ‘Mahama Cares Initiative’ as a “bold response” to these challenges, aimed at ensuring no Ghanaian has to choose between health and financial ruin.
The World Health Organization reports that non-communicable diseases account for 42% of all deaths in Ghana, with cardiovascular diseases contributing 19% and cancers 5%. Despite ongoing interventions, significant gaps remain in addressing the financial burden of treating such ailments. The Ghana Medical Care Trust Fund seeks to provide a dedicated financial cushion for those battling these conditions.
Rev. Prof. Emeritus Seth Ayettey, the taskforce chairman, assured stakeholders of an inclusive approach in their mandate. “Our task is clearly defined,” he stated. “We are to develop a robust policy and legal framework, assess the financial gaps, and evaluate infrastructure for managing chronic diseases in the country. While we may not engage everyone directly, we will ensure all stakeholders are well represented. Our report will be submitted by the first week of April.”
The ‘Mahama Cares Initiative’ is envisioned to complement the NHIS and reshape the landscape of healthcare in Ghana. By addressing chronic disease treatment gaps, the initiative aims to save lives and alleviate the financial burden on families, paving the way for a healthier and more equitable society.
Story by: Mercy Addai Turkson #ahotoronline.com
