Report by Nana POKU
President John Dramani Mahama in fulfillment of his campaign promise to Ghanaians on Tuesday launched the Ghana Medical Trust Fund (Mahama Cares), as part of efforts to relieve the financial burden of sufferers of chronic diseases. The launch, which took place at the University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC), Accra, saw the President, John Dramani Mahama make an announcement pledging to donate six (6) months of his salary to support the ‘Mahama Cares Medical Initiative’ to support and help people going through the non-communicable diseases challenge.
The president later narrated how his parents suffered from diseases like diabetes, cancer, complicated heart and blood diseases and he called on all Ghanaians to embrace the initiative.
He indicated that many Ghanaians are going through these diseases hence his determination to introduce this national issue to assuage the unfortunate victims who suffer from the diseases.
The president also lamented the ordeal these patients go through and the cost of treatment and drugs that render patients dispirited.
“There was a friend l supported who was on dialysis. After sometime, l was unable to continue to help due to the cost of treatment which was escalating every passing day. He ended up selling all his properties to treat himself but sadly passed away. So, I have a personal experience of how these diseases can affect loved ones,” he stated.
He indicated that “all hands must be on deck” to fight these deadly diseases.
The president signaled that this initiative would help treat chronic diseases by providing financial assistance. The Fund’s main source of finance will come from the National Health Insurance Levy (NHIL), the uncapped portion of the NHIL.
“These are diseases that are not covered by the National Health Insurance Scheme. The Fund will also invest in the health infrastructure, equipment, specialists training and medical research,” he stated.
The President also noted that the Fund would not only provide a long overdue lifeline to those bedded by chronic illness, but also position Ghana as a leader in innovative, people-centered, and compassionate healthcare reform. The Minister of Health, Mr Akandoh who was also in attendance later said that the Bill for the Mahama Cares Fund would be placed before Parliament upon its resumption from recess.
Rev Emeritus Prof Aryettey also in attendance, underscored the need for as many Ghanaians as possible to support the Fund, presented a check of $1,000.00 in support of the Fund.
Dr Kwame Anim-Boamah, the Chief Executive Officer of UGMC, on behalf of the Centre made a pledge of GH¢100,000.00 to the Fund, also lauded the President for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to strengthen Ghana’s healthcare system.
