Wa Naa commends Ghana Medical Trust Fund for easing burden of specialised healthcare

His Majesty Fuseini Seidu Pelpuo IV, the Wa Naa, has lauded the Ghana Medical Trust Fund (GMTF) for addressing the financial strain faced by families seeking specialized healthcare. He believes the initiative will provide much-needed relief to those battling non-communicable diseases, a condition that often burdens both the patients and their families with immense financial and emotional stress.

The Wa Naa made these remarks upon receiving a courtesy call from Adjoa Obuobia Darko-Opoku, the Administrator of the GMTF, and her team, who were visiting his palace ahead of the Fund’s regional awareness tour in the Upper West Region. The Wa Naa applauded the Fund's leadership for taking proactive steps to disseminate information about the GMTF directly to communities, thereby ensuring the program benefits even those living in less urban areas.

He emphasized that the initiative is not merely about financial support, but also about providing hope to individuals and families who might otherwise be unable to afford necessary treatment. The Wa Naa promised support from traditional authorities to promote awareness about the GMTF, urging chiefs and community leaders to educate residents about the Fund and its provisions.

Adjoa Obuobia Darko-Opoku, in her turn, explained that the GMTF was set up to help alleviate the financial obstacles that prevent individuals with non-communicable diseases from accessing specialized care. She outlined some of the conditions the Fund supports such as cancer, kidney disease, cardiovascular diseases and other chronic illnesses, all of which can impose significant financial burdens on patients and their families.

The Administrator highlighted the importance of the regional sensitisation tour in bringing the GMTF's services closer to communities, especially to those who may not be aware of the available support. She further stressed the significant role traditional rulers play in this endeavour due to their influence and close ties with the people.

She appealed to the Wa Naa and other traditional authorities to assist in identifying information gaps and ensuring that eligible patients understand the procedures for accessing the support offered. This engagement is part of the GMTF's nationwide outreach program, which aims to improve access to specialized medical care by reducing the financial barriers associated with treating serious and chronic illnesses.