Mahama calls for stronger health regulation to protect patients across Africa

President John Dramani Mahama has urged African nations to enhance healthcare regulation and cooperation in order to safeguard patients and bolster trust in medical systems. Addressing delegates at the 28th Annual International Conference of the Association of Medical Councils of Africa in Accra, Mahama emphasized that attaining universal health coverage should encompass more than merely granting access to healthcare; it must also guarantee safety, quality, ethical standards, and accountability.

The President highlighted several challenges currently confronting healthcare systems, such as the swift expansion of digital health and artificial intelligence, the movement of medical professionals, falsified qualifications, humanitarian crises, and the rising prevalence of misinformation. Mahama called for increased cross-border collaboration among health regulators across Africa, stronger verification of professional credentials, robust protection of health data, and the establishment of appropriate frameworks to regulate digital health and artificial intelligence.

Stressing that AI should augment professional judgment and human responsibility rather than supplant them, Mahama underscored the importance of ensuring that AI serves as a supportive tool rather than an independent decision-maker. Turning to Ghana's health initiatives, Mahama revealed that the National Health Insurance Scheme presently benefits approximately 76 percent of the populace, with the government's objective to elevate coverage to 90 percent.

He also discussed the implementation of the Free Primary Healthcare Programme in roughly 160 districts and ongoing efforts to bolster local pharmaceutical production.

Mahama urged African countries to collaborate in developing health systems that are owned by Africans, conform to global standards, and remain steadfastly dedicated to protecting the public's well-being.