More than 24,000 pieces of basic medical equipment have been distributed to primary healthcare facilities across Ghana as part of efforts to strengthen the implementation of the Free Primary Healthcare (FPHC) programme.
The Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, disclosed this while speaking at a community durbar at the Fian Health Centre in the Daffiama Bussie Issa District of the Upper West Region.
According to the Health Minister, 5,000 healthcare bags containing essential medical equipment have already been supplied to healthcare professionals working at the community level.
He added that another 5,000 healthcare bags, alongside 7,000 motorbikes and tricycles, are expected to be delivered in the coming weeks to improve access to healthcare services in communities across the country.
Free Primary Healthcare Services to Reach More Communities
Mr. Akandoh explained that the logistics would enable healthcare workers to take free primary healthcare services directly to residents in their homes and communities, as well as churches, mosques and other community locations.
The initiative is expected to place greater emphasis on disease prevention, health screening and early detection, allowing health professionals to identify potential health conditions before they become severe.
Residents will be screened for conditions including high blood pressure and high blood sugar, with patients requiring additional medical attention referred to appropriate health facilities for further treatment.
FPHC Programme Focuses on Community Healthcare
The Health Minister said the approach represents a shift from a healthcare system that is largely hospital-based to one that starts within communities and brings essential healthcare services closer to residents.
Under the Free Primary Healthcare programme, eligible services are provided at CHPS compounds, health centres and polyclinics.
The programme covers the treatment of common illnesses, including malaria, diarrhoea and respiratory infections, while promoting preventive healthcare and early medical intervention.
The government expects the distribution of medical equipment and transport logistics to improve the ability of healthcare professionals to provide accessible and affordable healthcare services to people across Ghana.
Source: newsthemegh.com