The NHIA (National Health Insurance Authority) recently announced that access to free healthcare services under the government’s Free Primary Healthcare (FPHC) Programme, launched by President John Dramani Mahama on April 15, 2026, is contingent upon possessing a valid NHIS (National Health Insurance Scheme) card or a Ghana Card.

During a press conference held on May 4, 2026, NHIA CEO Dr Victor Asare Bampoe emphasised that the FPHC Programme aims to ensure that every citizen and legal resident can access essential primary care, regardless of their insurance status.



The initiative will initially roll out in 150 underserved districts, with plans for full national coverage by 2028.

At various health facilities, including CHPS compounds, health centres, polyclinics, and over 350 container clinics located in markets and lorry parks, the following services are provided at no cost: Routine health screenings (hypertension, diabetes, cancer) – Maternal and child healthcare (antenatal, delivery, postnatal care) – Immunisations – Treatment of malaria and respiratory infections – Health education (family planning, menstrual hygiene, safe water), and Household visits by community health nurses

To access the Free Primary Healthcare Programme, individuals must present either a Ghana Card or an NHIS card for identification and tracking purposes.

Dr Bampoe clarified, “These cards are not barriers; they are tools that ensure the system operates effectively.”



Recognising that not every eligible Ghanaian possesses either card, Dr Bampoe highlighted the importance of the STORM initiative, which aims to rapidly increase the number of registered and active NHIS members.

He outlined the scope of FPHC, clarifying that it covers only primary care. In cases where a patient requires a referral after a screening, the NHIS becomes essential.

Without an active NHIS card, patients who are referred will have to pay out-of-pocket for services at District, Secondary or Tertiary hospitals. For conditions not fully covered under NHIS, the newly established Ghana Medical Trust Fund (referred to as MahamaCares) is available.



However, Dr Bampoe noted that "the pathway into MahamaCares runs through the NHIS. Without an active NHIS membership, patients cannot access the specialist care that the GMTF provides. An NHIS card is the key that unlocks the entire continuum of care.”

Dr Bampoe emphasised the urgency of the STORM initiative, stating, “This is a time-limited opportunity. It runs until May 31, 2026. After this date, fees will resume, and renewals will no longer be free. The waiver for waiting periods will also be lifted.”

He cautioned, “An expired card does not protect you, facilitate your referral, or activate MahamaCares for you.”



NAD/AM