Builsa North launches free primary health care initiative to boost access for vulnerable residents

The Builsa North Municipal Health Directorate has officially launched the Free Primary Health Care Initiative, a national programme aimed at expanding access to essential health services for vulnerable populations and advancing Ghana’s commitment to achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) by 2030.

The launch event, held on Friday at the Builsa North Municipal Assembly Hall, brought together health professionals, traditional authorities, assembly members, security agencies, civil society groups, and community members to deepen public awareness of the initiative and its benefits.

Addressing participants, Municipal Health Director Mr Bantiu Cabral said the initiative is designed to eliminate financial barriers that often prevent vulnerable individuals from seeking timely medical care.

According to him, the policy removes out‑of‑pocket payments at the primary healthcare level while strengthening health facilities' capacity to deliver quality services.

“The Free Primary Health Care Initiative is a national policy intended to remove the barriers of out‑of‑pocket payments from our vulnerable people. It is also aimed at strengthening systems at the primary healthcare level and ensuring that vulnerable people receive the best quality healthcare services,” he stated.

Mr. Cabral stressed that the initiative aligns with Ghana’s Constitution and the country’s long‑standing commitment to equitable healthcare delivery. He added that the programme will be financed through population‑based reimbursements from the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).

He dismissed claims that the initiative is politically motivated or could be discontinued with a change in government.

“This is not a political programme. It is in line with the Constitution and the National Health Insurance framework. It is a genuine national roadmap towards achieving Universal Health Coverage by 2030. We only need to come together as stakeholders to achieve the desired goals and ensure that vulnerable people benefit from the quality healthcare services they deserve,” he emphasized.

Also speaking at the event, the Builsa District Manager of the NHIS, Mr. Sunday Akpitipolah, said the programme reflects Ghana’s commitment to universal health coverage and seeks to guarantee that every Ghanaian can access basic healthcare without financial hardship.

He explained that services provided at CHPS compounds, health centres, clinics, and polyclinics under the initiative will be completely free of charge.

“The Free Primary Health Care Initiative is born out of Universal Health Coverage, and its essence is to ensure that every Ghanaian has access to healthcare. Basic healthcare should not be an obstacle to anyone in this country,” he said.

As part of the launch activities, a free health screening and treatment desk was set up at the venue, offering participants and residents basic medical checks and treatment. Many community members took advantage of the opportunity to undergo screening and receive care.

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