President John Dramani Mahama has announced plans to introduce a 20% incentive for health workers who accept postings to deprived and underserved communities.
The incentive, which will be applied to the basic salaries of eligible health workers, is intended to encourage more professionals to work in areas where access to healthcare remains limited.
President Mahama announced the plan at the launch of the Free Primary Healthcare programme at the Fian Health Centre in the Daffiama Bussie Issa District of the Upper West Region.
The President commended young health professionals who have accepted postings to the district, describing their decision as an act of patriotism and commitment to improving healthcare delivery in underserved communities.
He urged residents to welcome and support the newly posted health workers, while assuring that discussions were ongoing to address their needs and working conditions.
The proposed incentive forms part of efforts to make postings to deprived areas more attractive and improve the distribution of health professionals across the country.
Mahama urges NHIS registration
President Mahama also urged Ghanaians to register for the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), keep their memberships active and undergo regular health screenings.
He particularly encouraged screening for hypertension and diabetes, conditions that can remain undetected until they become serious.
He explained that the Free Primary Healthcare programme would provide treatment for common conditions at the primary care level.
Patients requiring more specialised treatment could be referred to district hospitals, where active NHIS membership would help them access further care.
The President further stressed the importance of early health checks, particularly among commercial drivers.
He said early detection could prevent avoidable health emergencies and help protect passengers and other road users.
The government’s push to strengthen primary healthcare, he said, must therefore be matched by public participation, regular screening and support for health professionals serving communities with limited access to healthcare.
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