Government is set to introduce a nationwide Home-Based Health Screening Ghana programme, a major step aimed at strengthening primary healthcare and addressing the growing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
Health Minister Kwabena Mintah-Akandoh announced the initiative during an appearance on PM Express, describing it as a transformative shift toward preventive healthcare.
The programme will see health services delivered directly to households, allowing citizens to undergo basic screenings without visiting health facilities. According to the Minister, access will be simple and inclusive.
“You can do the driver’s license, Ghana card, passport, and national health insurance card. Any of these that will identify you as a Ghanaian will give you access to the primary health care.” - Health Minister Kwabena Mintah-Akandoh
While the services will be free at the point of delivery, the Minister emphasised that the real innovation lies in the outreach approach.
“What for me is going to be the game changer is the fact that we are going to move into the homes of Ghanaians to do simple screening.” - Health Minister Kwabena Mintah-Akandoh
The initiative comes amid mounting concern over the increasing prevalence of chronic illnesses such as hypertension, diabetes, and stroke.
Shift from Treatment to Prevention
Central to the programme is a strategic shift from reactive care to early detection and prevention. By identifying risk factors and symptoms early, health officials aim to reduce complications and long-term healthcare costs.
“But we must begin to trace the source. We must begin to be able to detect these conditions on time to prevent them from getting to the complications.” - Health Minister Kwabena Mintah-Akandoh
The home-based screening initiative forms part of a broader healthcare reform agenda, which includes the introduction of support systems for advanced cases under the Mahama Cares programme.
“Now we have Mahama Cares, so these reforms must be comprehensive. It must be complete,” he said, highlighting the government’s intention to create a full continuum of care.
He explained that the system will ensure patients receive support at every stage, from early diagnosis to treatment.
“If… we are unable to prevent it or detect it on time… there’s another policy called Mahama Cares to be able to save you,” he added.
The nationwide rollout signals a decisive move to curb the rising impact of NCDs while improving access to essential healthcare services across Ghana.
READ ALSO: Non-Communicable Diseases in Ghana Rising at an Alarming Rate - Health Minister
