In a move to combat non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Ghana, the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has announced its inaugural free annual health check-up program.
This initiative, focused on hypertension and diabetes, represents a crucial step in the prevention and management of NCDs, which are leading causes of death in the country.
Globally, non-communicable diseases—such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, chronic respiratory diseases, and cancers—pose significant public health challenges.
According to 2019 statistics, NCDs were responsible for 41 million of the 55 million deaths worldwide, equating to 74% of all health-related deaths.
Alarmingly, 17 million people under the age of 70 die annually from NCDs, with 86% of these deaths considered premature. The majority of these deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries, including Ghana.
“This statistics presents the need for us to do things differently if we are to indeed use the universal health coverage in about six years from now and attain the healthy population for economic development.
“In our small but impactful way we have the wellness concept sought to increase access to screening and early detection of risk factors for non-communicable diseases, promote physical health through awareness creation and adoption of healthy lifestyle such us good nutrition, physical activity and promotion of overall wellbeing,” the Director-General of the Ghana Health Service ,Dr Patrick Kuma Aboagye highlighted.
Chief Executive Officer of the NHIA, Dr. Dacosta Aboagye, highlighted that this initiative is designed as an ongoing effort rather than a one-time event.
The program’s goal is to prioritize early detection and make it a routine aspect of health care.
“The first phase of this free annual health program will offer comprehensive screening services, including blood pressure monitoring, blood sugar testing, body mass index assessments, and counseling. Referrals for further treatment will also be provided as necessary.
“These services will be accessible at designated public and private health facilities across the country, ensuring that individuals can receive care regardless of their location or economic status. The NHIA will collaborate with its partners to ensure that all participating facilities are well-equipped to deliver high-quality screenings and counseling,” he added.
This new health program is available to all Ghanaian residents aged 18 and above who are registered with the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).
Through this initiative, the NHIA is committed to making significant strides towards improved health outcomes and a healthier future for Ghana.
