In a bid to revolutionize healthcare accessibility and promote preventive measures, the Chief Executive Officer of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), Dr. Dacosta Aboagye, has announced a groundbreaking initiative to provide every Ghanaian with one free medical check-up annually.
The initiative, revealed during an exclusive interview with JoyNews’ Raymond Acquah, aims to extend healthcare services to all citizens, irrespective of their socio-economic status or NHIS registration status. Dr. Dacosta Aboagye, formerly the Director of Health Promotion at the Ghana Health Service, emphasized that preventive healthcare should be a basic right accessible to all. “Shifting our focus from reactive treatment to proactive prevention is essential for reducing disease burden, enhancing overall well-being, and boosting productivity across society,” Dr. Aboagye emphasized.
The implementation of annual medical check-ups is envisioned to serve as a proactive intervention strategy. By detecting health issues at an early stage, healthcare providers can intervene promptly when treatment is most effective. Additionally, these check-ups offer an opportunity for health education and lifestyle counseling, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health. The NHIA is currently finalizing the logistics for the rollout of this initiative, with plans set to kick off as early as next month. This move aligns with Ghana’s broader healthcare objectives outlined in its health policy framework, which emphasizes the importance of preventive measures in reducing the prevalence of diseases and improving health outcomes.
Dr. Dacosta Aboagye brings a wealth of expertise to his role as NHIA CEO, being the first health insurance specialist to lead the organization. With a background in National Health Insurance Financing, Public Health, and Health Promotion from Leeds Beckett University, UK, Dr. Aboagye is well-equipped to spearhead this transformative initiative. Prior to his appointment, Dr. Aboagye served as a lecturer in Public Health & Health Promotion at the University of West London. He currently holds leadership positions in regional and continental health networks, including chairing the ECOWAS Risk Communication and Community Engagements network for 15 member states and the Africa CDC Public Health Risk Communication and Community Engagements initiative.
The announcement of free annual medical check-ups for all Ghanaians marks a significant step towards achieving universal health coverage and improving the overall health outcomes of the population. As Dr. Dacosta Aboagye’s visionary leadership drives this initiative forward, it holds the promise of a healthier and more prosperous future for Ghana.
