The Ministry of Health, in partnership with Jhpiego and Pfizer, has marked World Cancer Day with a renewed pledge to strengthen breast cancer care in Ghana through sustainable financing mechanisms.
At a high‑level roundtable in Accra, policymakers, health professionals, and civil society organizations gathered to deliberate on practical strategies for expanding access to affordable cancer services and easing the financial burden on patients.
Delivering the keynote address on behalf of the Minister for Health, Hon. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, Chief Director Mr. Desmond Boateng described breast cancer as a growing public health concern, often detected at advanced stages and associated with high treatment costs. He acknowledged the contributions of various institutions but cautioned that interventions remain fragmented, stressing the need for harmonized systems and improved coordination.
Mr. Boateng outlined government’s commitment to cancer care through initiatives such as the Ghana Medical Trust Fund (Mahama Cares), the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), and the Free Primary Healthcare Initiative. These interventions, he said, are designed to support treatment, promote early detection, and expand equitable access nationwide.
Referencing the National Health Policy, the Universal Health Coverage Roadmap, and the National Non‑Communicable Disease Strategy, the Chief Director reaffirmed government’s dedication to ensuring quality and equitable healthcare for all Ghanaians. He further urged stakeholders to explore innovative financing models, strengthen multi‑sectoral partnerships, and mobilize resources to enhance comprehensive breast cancer services.
The roundtable also featured presentations on expanded NHIS benefit packages for cancer care, opportunities to improve diagnostics, treatment, and palliative care, as well as key financing constraints affecting breast cancer service delivery in Ghana.
The commemoration underscored the collective resolve of government and partners to confront the challenges of breast cancer care and advance sustainable solutions for the health and wellbeing of citizens.
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