- The initiative is a significant step towards prioritizing preventive healthcare in Ghana
- The program ensures Ghanaians aged 18 and above have access to essential healthcare services
- The free annual health checkup includes vital screenings for blood pressure, blood sugar, and BMI
The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has introduced a new initiative offering free annual health check-ups under the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) to address non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and chronic conditions.
The newly launched ‘Free Annual Health Checkup’ program aims to provide complimentary health screenings to all citizens.
Dr. Da-Costa Aboagye, Chief Executive Officer of the NHIA, shared details about the initiative with journalists. Titled “Addressing Non-Communicable Diseases and Chronic Diseases in Ghana,” the program focuses on preventive healthcare.
The program will include comprehensive screenings for blood pressure, blood sugar levels, and Body Mass Index (BMI), along with necessary counseling and referrals. All NHIS subscribers and Ghana Card holders will be invited to participate in the check-up once a year.
“This initiative offers all Ghanaians aged 18 and older, regardless of NHIS enrollment, access to healthcare services at any accredited provider across the country,” Dr. Aboagye stated.
The aim is to improve healthcare access and promote preventive measures by detecting non-communicable diseases (NCDs) early. Conditions such as hypertension, stroke, diabetes, and cancers, which are significant causes of mortality in the country, will be targeted through this initiative.
The first phase of the NHIS preventive health initiative will offer services at selected public and private health facilities nationwide, ensuring broad accessibility.
During the initiative’s launch in Accra, Dr. Aboagye emphasized that it reflects both the government’s and the NHIA’s commitment to enhancing healthcare access and reducing disease incidence. “Our Free Annual Health Checkup program is intended to prevent serious health conditions, lower healthcare costs, and improve quality of life,” he explained.
Dr. Aboagye also highlighted that the initiative is aligned with global trends towards preventive health care and aims to boost NHIA membership. He stressed the benefits of early detection and intervention and acknowledged the support of various stakeholders, including the Ministry of Health, Ghana Health Service, Christian Health Association of Ghana (CHAG), private health facilities, and community leaders.
He also expressed appreciation to development partners such as the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) for their contributions to public health improvements.
Dr. Aboagye announced that a nationwide orientation will be conducted to encourage Ghanaians to take advantage of the Free Annual Health Checkup, aiming for a healthier and more productive nation.
Minister of Public Enterprises, Joseph Codjoe, speaking on behalf of the Vice-President’s wife, Samira Bawumia, underscored the importance of the initiative as one of the government’s major policies, alongside the Free Senior High School policy. “Ghanaians are urged to utilize the Free Annual Health Checkup to detect health issues early and plan better for their lives,” the minister said.
