The North East Region has officially launched the Free Primary Healthcare Policy, aimed at improving access to essential health services and reducing financial barriers to healthcare delivery.
Speaking at the launch, the North East Regional Minister, Ibrahim Tia, described the initiative as a major government intervention designed to ensure that all residents—particularly vulnerable groups—can access quality healthcare regardless of their financial status or geographical location.
The Regional Director of Health Services, Dr. Godfred Kobina Sarpong, said the policy represents a significant step toward achieving universal health coverage by 2030.
He noted, however, that challenges such as low National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) coverage, inadequate infrastructure, poor road networks, and shortages of health personnel continue to affect healthcare delivery in the region.
Presentations delivered by the Deputy Director of Public Health, Dr. Abdul Rauf Sulemana, and the Deputy Director of Clinical Care, Mr. Idrisu Mohammed, outlined the implementation and monitoring framework for the policy.
They also highlighted complementary interventions under the free primary healthcare initiative, particularly support for the management of chronic Non-Communicable Diseases.
Stakeholders were informed that preventive and promotive healthcare services—including health screening, immunisation, and health education—will be provided free of charge at Community-based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) compounds, health centres, and polyclinics.
Treatment services, however, will continue to be covered under the National Health Insurance Scheme.
