INSLA urges swift parliamentary approval of Mahama Cares Fund Bill to ease chronic disease burden.

The Institute of Leadership and Development (INSLA) has urged Parliament to pass the National Medical Trust Fund Bill, also known as the Mahama Cares Fund, following its recent approval by Cabinet.

In a statement issued on Monday, June 24, 2025, INSLA welcomed the development, describing it as an important step towards addressing the growing number of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in the country.

These include diabetes, cancer, heart disease, kidney failure, and chronic respiratory conditions, which continue to affect many Ghanaians.

INSLA noted that the bill, once passed into law, would establish a permanent financing arrangement to support both the treatment and prevention of such conditions. It also expressed hope that the fund would ease the financial pressure on individuals and households living with NCDs.

“The Ghana Medical Care Trust Fund provides a ray of hope for people living with NCDs, as it will improve the quality of life for these people and their families by offering financial help,” said Ms Mary Yayra Kpogo, Director of Programmes at INSLA.

The bill proposes that the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) receive the uncapped portion of the National Health Insurance Levy (NHIL), which would increase the funds available for public medical services.

According to Ms Kpogo, this would allow the NHIA to offer more consistent and affordable healthcare to Ghanaians.

As a civil society organisation that works on public health, social protection, and development, INSLA said the bill is timely. It pointed out that access to healthcare remains a challenge for many, particularly those managing long-term illnesses with limited income.

“The National Medical Trust Fund Bill responds to the widening health financing gap in Ghana,” the statement said.

INSLA called on Members of Parliament, the media, and the public to support the bill to help improve access to care for those most affected.

INSLA also said it is ready to work with lawmakers and other stakeholders to raise awareness and help ensure the fund is managed in a transparent and effective way when it becomes law.

“We look forward to the positive changes the Ghana Medical Care Trust Fund can bring to the healthcare system,” the statement added.