Why ‘Mahama Cares’ must be cared for

The Ghana Medical Trust Fund, known as Mahama Cares, plays a vital role in Ghana's healthcare system. Established in July 2025, it assists patients needing specialized treatment for severe conditions like cancer, kidney disease, cardiovascular disease, stroke, and diabetes. The Fund seeks to supplement the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) and free primary healthcare by bridging the gap for high-cost specialized treatment.

As it enters its first year of operation, Administrator Obuobia Darko-Opoku's efforts to put this vision into practice are commended. The GMTF's pilot program supported 150 patients, including 110 children, across 11 hospitals. It also replaced the cardiac catheterisation laboratory at the National Cardiothoracic Centre at Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, where over 60 patients have undergone complex lifesaving procedures.

Ghana's 2023 STEPS Survey reveals that hypertension affects about 22% of adults, equivalent to 3.7 million people, while 1.9 million individuals with high blood pressure remain unaware and untreated. The financial strain of treating these conditions is significant. A 2024 study found that breast cancer patients treated at public facilities incurred median costs of GH¢30,000, compared to GH¢55,000 for private facility patients.

Nearly 38% of the overall cost was indirect, including productivity losses for patients and their families. To ensure the long-term sustainability of Mahama Cares, four key priorities must be addressed. First, reliable national data on disease prevalence and treatment costs must be established through the improvement of existing health information systems.

Second, complementary private health insurance should be strengthened, with potential incentives for employers and labor organizations to offer additional coverage. Third, prevention efforts must be bolstered through NHIS, including age- and risk-appropriate screening and digital reminders to encourage members to access these services.

Lastly, accountability, monitoring, and evaluation are crucial. The GMTF should publish regular reports detailing funds received, released, patients supported, services provided, and outstanding financial obligations. Transparent and independent audits of private-sector and philanthropic contributions can further support sustainability.

In conclusion, Mahama Cares must be proactively cared for through sustainable financing, evidence-based planning, prevention, accountability, monitoring, and evaluation. Ultimately, its success will be determined by whether Ghanaians can receive necessary treatment without financial hardship, allowing them to lead healthier and more fulfilling lives.