The government has officially launched a taskforce to operationalize the Ghana Medical Care Trust Fund, also known as the Mahama Cares Initiative, which aims to bridge the financial gap in the treatment of chronic diseases like cancer, kidney disease, and cardiovascular ailments.
The nine-member taskforce, led by Prof. Emeritus Seth Ayettey, has been given a five-week deadline to submit recommendations. These will focus on creating a sustainable funding model and establishing clear policies for eligibility and disbursement of funds to those battling chronic illnesses. Other members of the taskforce include notable figures in the medical and legal fields, such as Prof. Emeritus Fred Binka, Dr. Alfred Doku, and Lawyer Anna Pearl Akiwumi Siriboe, among others.
According to the World Health Organization, non-communicable diseases contribute to 42% of all deaths in Ghana, with cardiovascular diseases and cancers accounting for a significant portion of this figure. Despite efforts to improve healthcare access through programs like the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), there remains a gap in addressing the high cost of specialized treatments, particularly for those suffering from chronic conditions.
The Mahama Cares Initiative, part of a broader effort to reduce healthcare inequities, seeks to provide direct financial support for individuals facing the burden of costly treatments. It will work alongside the NHIS but specifically focus on diseases that incur substantial financial strain on families.
Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, who inaugurated the taskforce, emphasized the importance of quality healthcare as a fundamental right, stating that life-saving treatments should not remain out of reach for the many Ghanaians struggling with chronic diseases. “The goal of Mahama Cares is simple: no Ghanaian should have to choose between their health and financial ruin,” Mr.Akandoh said.
At the inauguration, Rev. Prof. Emeritus Seth Ayettey, the chairman of the taskforce, assured the public that the committee would engage with various stakeholders to ensure that the initiative reflects the needs of all Ghanaians. He stated, “We will ensure that no one is left out. Our task is clear, and we are committed to submitting a comprehensive report by the first week of April.”
With this new initiative, the government hopes to significantly improve access to specialized care, providing a lifeline to those most in need.
Source:TheDotNews