Prioritising health for all on World Health Day

Today is World Health Day, a period to reflect on the importance of health as the foundation of thriving communities. 

This year’s theme, “Health for All: Ensuring Equity and Access in a Changing World, underscores the urgent need to address disparities in health care and guarantee that every individual, regardless of background or location, has access to quality medical services.  

Ghana has made commendable progress in health care over the years, from reducing maternal mortality to expanding immunisation coverage.

However, significant challenges remain. Rural areas still face shortages of medical professionals and facilities, while urban centres grapple with overcrowded hospitals and rising cases of non-communicable diseases such as hypertension and diabetes. Additionally, the lessons from recent global health crises remind us that preparedness and resilient health systems are non-negotiable.  

To achieve true “Health for All,” the government must prioritise strengthening primary health care, ensuring that even the most remote communities have access to essential services. 

Equally critical is investing in preventive care through public education on nutrition, hygiene and regular health screenings to curb the growing burden of lifestyle-related diseases.

Furthermore, our dedicated health workers—the backbone of the system—deserve better remuneration, improved working conditions and modern equipment to deliver efficient care.  

The recent launch of the Ghana Medical Trust Fund (Mahama Cares) marks a significant step towards achieving equitable health care in our country.

By providing financial support to patients battling chronic diseases such as cancer, kidney failure and heart conditions, this initiative directly addresses one of the most pressing challenges in our health sector—the prohibitive cost of long-term treatment.

Many Ghanaians battling these illnesses face financial ruin or are forced to abandon care due to lack of money. This fund therefore offers hope, ensuring that no life is cut short simply because of economic hardship.  

However, for the Mahama Cares initiative to achieve its full potential, transparency and efficient management must be prioritised.

The government must ensure that the fund is accessible to all who qualify, without bureaucratic delays or political interference.

Additionally, public awareness campaign is needed to educate citizens on the eligibility criteria and application processes, particularly in rural and underserved communities, where information may not easily reach.

Sustainability is also key—this programme should not be a short-term intervention but a permanent pillar of our healthcare system, backed by reliable funding and strong oversight mechanisms.  

Beyond financial support, we must also invest in preventive measures and early detection to reduce the prevalence of these chronic diseases.

Strengthening diagnostic facilities nationwide, promoting regular health screenings and intensifying public education on lifestyle risks (such as poor diet, smoking, and alcohol abuse) will complement the Medical Trust Fund’s efforts. 

When combined with policies that make essential medicines more affordable and improve specialist care in regional hospitals, the country can build a healthcare system that truly leaves no one behind.

Mahama Cares is a commendable start—now let us work together to expand its impact on generations to come.

The responsibility does not rest on policymakers alone.

Every citizen must play a role by adopting healthier habits, participating in health outreach programmes, and holding leaders accountable for equitable health policies.

A collective effort is needed to build a country where no one is denied medical care due to poverty or geography.  

As we mark World Health Day, let us recommit to the principle that health is a fundamental human right, not a privilege.

A healthy nation is the cornerstone of sustainable development, economic productivity and social stability.

Together, we can—and must—ensure that “Health for All” becomes a reality in the country.

Stay healthy, stay strong.