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The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has launched a ‘Free Annual Health Checkup’ initiative under the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) to address non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and chronic conditions in Ghana. This program aims to provide free health screening to all citizens, focusing on preventive health care.
Dr. Da-Costa Aboagye, the Chief Executive Officer of NHIA, stated that the initiative is themed “Addressing Non-Communicable Diseases and Chronic Diseases in Ghana” and includes comprehensive annual health screenings. These screenings will test for blood pressure, blood sugar, and Body Mass Index (BMI), and provide counselling and referrals as necessary. All NHIS subscribers and Ghana Card holders aged 18 and above are invited to participate in the check-up at any credentialed provider nationwide.
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The initiative is designed to enhance healthcare access and promote preventive measures against NCDs and chronic conditions through early detection. Conditions such as hypertension, stroke, diabetes, and cancers, which are major causes of mortality in the country, will be targeted. The first phase will provide these services at designated public and private health facilities across the nation, ensuring accessibility regardless of location or socio-economic status.
Dr. Aboagye emphasized that this program demonstrates the government and NHIA’s commitment to enhancing healthcare access and reducing disease incidence. The Free Annual Health Checkup aims to prevent severe health conditions, reduce healthcare costs, and improve quality of life, ultimately increasing life expectancy and accelerating the achievement of universal health coverage and Sustainable Development Goal Three.
The initiative also aims to increase NHIA membership and aligns with the global shift towards preventive health care, highlighting the benefits of early detection and intervention. Dr. Aboagye acknowledged the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders, including the Ministry of Health, the Ghana Health Service, Christian Health Association of Ghana (CHAG), private health facilities, teaching hospitals, the Society of Private Medical and Dental Health Practitioners, and community leaders. He also expressed gratitude to development partners like the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).
Dr. Aboagye stated that the NHIA will ensure that partners are well-equipped to deliver high-quality screening services, and emphasized the importance of educating the population on healthy lifestyles and preventive measures. A nationwide orientation will encourage Ghanaians to take advantage of the Free Annual Health Checkup to safeguard their health and contribute to a healthier, more productive nation.
Minister of Public Enterprises, Joseph Codjoe, delivered the keynote address on behalf of Samira Bawumia, the wife of the Vice-President, highlighting the significance of this initiative along with the Free Senior High School policy as key policies to improve the lives of Ghanaians. He encouraged Ghanaians to utilize the Free Annual Health Checkup for early detection of health issues, enabling better life planning.
