Ghana Takes a Giant Leap in Healthcare with the Launch of MahamaCares
In a significant move to transform Ghana’s healthcare system, the Hon. Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has officially inaugurated the MahamaCares Technical Taskforce. This initiative, spearheaded by President John Mahama, aims to provide financial support to individuals battling chronic and debilitating illnesses, ensuring that no Ghanaian has to choose between their health and financial ruin.
The MahamaCares initiative is a response to the alarming statistics on non-communicable diseases in Ghana. According to the World Health Organization, these diseases account for 42% of all deaths in Ghana, with cardiovascular diseases and cancers being major contributors. The National Health Insurance Scheme, although instrumental in providing coverage, falls short in addressing the high costs of specialized treatments.
The Technical Taskforce, comprising esteemed experts in healthcare, finance, and law, has been mandated to develop a robust policy and legal framework, design a sustainable funding model, establish clear eligibility and disbursement criteria, and evaluate current healthcare infrastructure.
The taskforce members include:
Rev. Prof. Emeritus Seth Aryeetey, former Provost of the College of Health Sciences, as Chair
Prof. Emeritus Binka, former Vice Chancellor of the University of Health and Allied Sciences
Prof. Margaret Kweku, Public Health Consultant
Dr. Alfred Doku, Consultant Cardiologist
Dr. Radolph Nsor-Ambala, Financial Expert
Dr. Anthony Gingong, representative of the National Health Insurance Trust Fund
Dr. Anthony Seddoh, Health Policy and Financing Expert
Anna Pearl Akiwumi Siriboe, lawyer and Attorney General’s representative
Dr. Belinda Afriyie, Public Health Consultant and Secretary for the Taskforce
The success of MahamaCares relies on collective efforts from government agencies, private sector organizations, civil society, and the international community. As the taskforce embarks on this significant journey, Ghanaians can look forward to a healthcare system that prioritizes accessibility, equity, and quality care for all.
