The government has outlined a multi-level, community-centred approach to Ghana’s proposed Free Primary Health Care Programme, describing it as a connected system designed to improve access, early detection of diseases, and continuity of care.

In a post shared on social media, the Minister for Government Communications,Felix Kwakye Ofosu, said the programme will be anchored on Ghana’s existing primary health system, particularlyCommunity-based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) compounds, health centres, and polyclinics.

Under the framework, patients will be able to access care at the nearest CHPS compound or health facility, either by walking in, through community outreach programmes, or via home visits by health workers.

According to the Minister, the system is designed not only to treat immediate health concerns but also to actively screen patients for conditions that often go undetected until later stages.

“If the condition is simple, it will be managed at that level. If it requires more attention, the patient will be referred to a health centre or polyclinic,” the statement explained.

At the health centre level, additional services will be provided, including basic laboratory testing, maternity care, and minor medical procedures. Patients requiring further treatment will then be referred to higher-level facilities within the health system.

A key feature of the proposed model is structured referral and follow-up, where patients are returned to community-level care after treatment for continued monitoring and support.

“This is a system that is connected, continuous, and people-centred,” the Minister said.

The Free Primary Health Care Programme is expected to strengthen Ghana’s primary healthcare delivery system by improving early diagnosis, reducing pressure on higher-tier hospitals, and ensuring continuity of care across all levels of the health sector.

Minister for Health says the following will happen under the Free Primary Health Care Programme

– A person in a community will go to their nearest CHPS compound or health centre or polyclinic.

-They can walk in, or they may be reached through community outreach.

— Felix Kwakye Ofosu (@FelixKwakyeOfo1) April 13, 2026