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President John Dramani Mahama made a bold decision by establishing the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, also known as “Mahama Cares,” to lessen the financial burden of Ghanaians dealing with chronic illnesses.
It is anticipated that the program, which was formally introduced on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, at the University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC), will offer vital financial assistance to individuals whose medical care is not covered by the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).
President Mahama established the framework for what he called “a national expression of compassion” by making an initial personal donation equal to six months’ pay.
The fund will concentrate on specialist-level therapy for illnesses like cancer, stroke, diabetes, kidney failure, and cardiovascular disorders, and it is anticipated that it will need GHC 3 billion yearly for the first three years.
The fund strives to provide accessible, patient-centered treatment under the direction of an independent board and with the backing of a strong administrative framework. As the fund develops, plans are also in place to incorporate home-based and palliative support services.
Using the opportunity, President Mahama pushed for increased assistance for regional pharmaceutical firms in their efforts to lower drug prices. Based on his own experience, he emphasized the significant price disparity between pharmaceuticals made locally and those imported.
Concerned people, civil society leaders, development partners, and medical professionals attended the launch and praised the program as a timely and transformative intervention. Once Parliament reconvenes, a comparable bill will be prepared for its consideration.
According to President Mahama, the fund represents a long-term commitment to the health and dignity of every Ghanaian dealing with chronic illness, not merely a political pledge honored.
Source: Ghanatodayonline.com
