The Chief Executive Officer of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), Dr. Dacosta Aboagye has announced an ambitious plan to ensure that every Ghanaian receives at least one annual medical check-up.
The initiative aims to address existing health concerns and proactively identify potential health risks within the Ghanaian public with promptness. Additionally, Ghanaians who are not yet registered with the NHIS will be captured during their visit to the hospital for their annual check-up.
In a media engagement, Dr. Aboagye revealed that the NHIA is finalizing the rollout of this initiative, with plans to commence as early as next month. He articulated that the goal of this initiative is to foster a healthier population nationwide by shifting the focus from reactive treatment to proactive prevention strategies which will enable healthcare providers to detect health issues at an early stage when they are most treatable.
“By shifting the focus from reactive treatment to proactive prevention, Ghana can significantly reduce the burden of disease, improve overall well-being, and enhance productivity across all sectors of society.”
The Chief Executive further mentioned securing funding from USAID, stating;
“…that’s about $15 million for a pilot under our network of practice, which is currently being implemented by the Ghana Health Service.”
In an exclusive interview with Univers News, some Ghanaians expressed strong support for the NHIA’s proactive approach to healthcare. They emphasized the importance of routine health examinations for general well-being and highlighted the potential effects on both personal health and the economy.
“I think it’s a good idea. When it comes to our health, we tend to wait until we are sick, and I think that’s not a good idea. Having the opportunity to regularly visit the hospital to find out what exactly is wrong with us is a good initiative by the NHIS.”
“Health is wealth, and if governments prioritize our health, it’s an initiative that I would 100% champion. Good health can help everything grow, even the economy.”
The NHIA’s comprehensive plan aims to guarantee that each and every Ghanaian has access to at least one yearly medical check-up, reflecting a proactive approach towards improving public health outcomes.
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Story by: Lartey Ebenezer | univers.ug.edu.gh
