As part of Ghana’s drive toward Universal Health Coverage (UHC), the Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has instructed the Pharmacy Council to revise the criteria for awarding pharmacy licenses, shifting from a distance-based system to a population-based approach.

Speaking at a two-day Expanded Stakeholders Retreat, the Minister explained that the previous licensing method, which prioritised the proximity of pharmacies to each other, no longer meets the country’s healthcare needs.

Instead, licenses will now be allocated based on population size, ensuring equitable access to medicines across communities.

“This new approach will better align pharmacy distribution with population needs, particularly in underserved areas, and strengthen Ghana’s efforts to make healthcare accessible to all,” Akandoh said.

The policy change is expected to improve nationwide pharmacy coverage, enhance access to essential medicines, and support Ghana’s broader goal of achieving UHC.