The Ghana Health Service Director-General, Dr Samuel Kaba Akoriyea has called on health managers nationwide to take a leading role in implementing the Free Primary Healthcare programme. He stressed that the reform represents a major shift in Ghana’s health system and requires practical action rather than policy declarations.
Addressing the Ghana Health Service Senior Managers Meeting 2026, Dr Kaba Akoriyea stated that the success of the initiative depends on the ability of health workers to deliver quality care at the community level. He noted that Universal Health Coverage can only be achieved when services are effectively delivered in local facilities.
He explained that the Free Primary Healthcare programme stands as one of the most significant health sector reforms currently underway. He added that the Ghana Health Service carries the central responsibility for translating government policy into real outcomes.
Dr Kaba Akoriyea emphasised that implementation must move beyond planning into measurable service delivery. He further highlighted the need for practical systems that strengthen healthcare at the grassroots level.
A key priority he outlined is the nationwide remapping and rationalisation of Community based Health Planning and Services zones. He said this is necessary to ensure that healthcare delivery matches population changes and emerging health needs.
The CHPS strategy remains the backbone of Ghana’s primary healthcare system. However, rapid population growth and urban expansion have made regular reviews essential to maintain efficiency.
He called for broad stakeholder involvement including health workers, local authorities and development partners. He stressed that the programme requires collective ownership to succeed across all districts.
“The FPHC reflects the most significant health sector reform currently underway in Ghana with a clear responsibility for the GHS to lead its implementation.”
Dr Samuel Kaba Akoriyea
Dr Kaba Akoriyea further urged managers to prioritise frontline service delivery and improve facility readiness. He said success should be measured by improved health outcomes rather than administrative reports.
He added that health professionals working in CHPS compounds, health centres and polyclinics will determine the success of the programme. He noted that their daily decisions will shape the quality of care received by millions of citizens.
“Our success will not be measured by the policy announcement but by our ability to translate the policy into accessible quality services that improve the lives of Ghanaians in every district and community.”
Dr Samuel Kaba Akoriyea
The Director-General reiterated that the Free Primary Healthcare initiative forms part of broader efforts to achieve Universal Health Coverage. He said Ghana must ensure equitable access to essential health services without financial hardship.
He added that the responsibility now rests with managers and health workers to turn the vision into reality. He added that strong leadership and collaboration will be key to delivering lasting reform in the health sector.
Implementation Priorities Set For Primary Healthcare Expansion
The Ghana Health Service has outlined key operational priorities as part of efforts to implement the Free Primary Healthcare programme nationwide. The Director-General, Dr Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, said the focus must now shift from policy formulation to effective execution.
He told the Senior Managers Meeting 2026 that health authorities must adopt practical measures to improve service delivery at the community level. He stressed that implementation success depends on coordinated action across all levels of the health system.
Dr Kaba Akoriyea identified the remapping of CHPS zones as an immediate priority for the service. He explained that population dynamics and migration patterns require updated structures to ensure equitable access to care.
He noted that CHPS compounds remain central to Ghana’s primary healthcare delivery system. He added that regular adjustments are necessary to keep services aligned with changing community needs.
The Director-General urged health managers to ensure that facilities are adequately equipped to meet rising demand. He said improved infrastructure and staffing remain critical to achieving national health targets.
He also called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders including development partners and local governance structures. He explained that shared responsibility will be essential for sustainable healthcare delivery.
Dr Kaba Akoriyea further emphasised the importance of frontline workers in shaping health outcomes. He said their role in communities directly determines the effectiveness of national health policies.
He highlighted that decisions made at facility level have long term consequences for patient care. He added that managers must prioritise efficiency, responsiveness and quality service delivery.
The Director-General said the Free Primary Healthcare programme is designed to reduce barriers to essential healthcare services. He noted that the initiative also aims to improve equity and accessibility across rural and urban communities.
Health sector observers have described the programme as a potential game changer for Ghana’s healthcare system. They argue that effective implementation could significantly improve outcomes in underserved areas.
Dr Kaba Akoriyea reiterated that success will depend on sustained commitment from all stakeholders. He said the health sector must remain focused on translating policy into real improvements in people’s lives.
He concluded that the Senior Managers Meeting marks an important step in aligning national strategies for healthcare reform. He added that Ghana’s progress towards Universal Health Coverage will depend on disciplined execution and strong institutional coordination.
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