Novartis backs Ghana Medical Trust Fund to expand access to specialised healthcare

Novartis, a major global healthcare company, has pledged its support to the Ghana Medical Trust Fund (GMTF), describing it as a vital intervention that can save lives and improve access to specialized healthcare in Ghana. Dr. Lutz Hegeman, the President of Global Health and Swiss Country Director of Novartis, made this announcement during a visit to meet with GMTF management.

He expressed Novartis' commitment to working closely with the Trust Fund to ensure more Ghanaians living with chronic diseases can receive financial assistance for specialized treatment. The GMTF's mandate to address critical gaps in healthcare delivery and technology aligns closely with Novartis' goals, according to Dr. Hegeman.

He particularly expressed interest in collaborating on research and development, medical equipment provision, and training for healthcare professionals. The GMTF has made significant strides since its establishment a year ago, including the commissioning of an ultra-modern Cardiac Catheterisation Laboratory at the National Cardiothoracic Centre of Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, donation of medical equipment to the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, and the construction of two cardiology centers at the Komfo Anokye and Tamale Teaching Hospitals.

They have also begun disbursing financial support directly to accredited treatment centers to aid patients with high-cost chronic care, covering conditions like dialysis, cancer treatment, renal care, and cardiovascular diseases not covered by the National Health Insurance Scheme. The Administrator of the GMTF, Adjoa Obuobia Darko-Opoku, highlighted these achievements during the engagement.

This collaboration is expected to lead to further opportunities for Novartis and the GMTF in specialized healthcare, research and development, medical equipment, and professional training.