Ghana’s parliament has unanimously passed the Ghana Medical Trust Fund Bill, 2025, also known as “Mahama Cares,” a significant step towards enhancing the country’s healthcare system. The bill aims to establish a dedicated trust fund to support critical medical interventions, emergency care, and treatment for individuals suffering from chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as cancer, diabetes, kidney failure, and stroke.
Key Provisions of the Bill
– Establishment of the Ghana Medical Trust Fund: The fund will provide financial support for patients battling chronic diseases, covering treatment costs not included in the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).
– Funding Sources: The fund will be financed through:
– National Budget Allocation: A dedicated portion of the national budget will be allocated to the fund.
– Voluntary Contributions: Individuals and corporate bodies can contribute to the fund.
– Donor Support: International donors and development partners can provide support to the fund.
– Governance Framework: A Board of Trustees will oversee the fund’s operations, ensure transparency and prevent misapplication of resources.
Impact on Healthcare
The Ghana Medical Trust Fund is expected to ease the financial burden on thousands of families by covering part or all of the cost of expensive treatments, surgeries, and medications. This initiative aims to reduce the risk of households falling into poverty due to medical expenses, particularly those with patients suffering from chronic diseases.
Next Steps
The bill now awaits presidential assent before it becomes law. Once operational, the fund is expected to provide a critical safety net for citizens who fall through the cracks of the NHIS, ensuring they receive necessary medical care without facing financial hardship.