Pusiga Health Directorate launches free primary healthcare policy

The Pusiga District Health Directorate has launched a Free Primary Healthcare Policy aimed at eliminating financial barriers to basic healthcare services and improving access to quality medical care for residents across the district.

Speaking at the launch, the District Health Director, Cosmos A. Aminyila, described the initiative as a major step towards enhancing healthcare delivery and improving the well-being of people in Pusiga and surrounding communities.

Under the policy, residents will be able to access a range of essential primary healthcare services free of charge at public health facilities. According to Mr. Aminyila, residents will only be required to present their Ghana Card to benefit from the programme.

“All you need is your Ghana Card,” he stated.

The free services cover health education, disease prevention, immunisation, maternal and child healthcare, treatment of common illnesses, health screening and referral services.

Mr. Aminyila noted that many families have in the past delayed seeking medical attention because of financial constraints, often resorting to self-medication or waiting until their conditions became severe before visiting health facilities.

He said the policy is expected to particularly benefit vulnerable groups, including children, pregnant women, the elderly, persons living with disabilities and low-income households.

According to the Directorate, the initiative is also designed to encourage early healthcare-seeking behaviour, improve disease prevention and promote healthier communities.

Healthcare services under the programme will be delivered through Community-based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) compounds, health centres, clinics and a health post expected to be established at the Pusiga Market.

The Directorate has urged residents to take advantage of the initiative by visiting public health facilities whenever they are unwell, ensuring that children receive their routine vaccinations and attending antenatal clinics regularly.

Health workers, traditional authorities, assembly members and the media have also been called upon to support public education efforts and help raise awareness about the policy across the district.