The CEO of the National Health Insurance Authority, Dr. Dacosta Aboagye, has revealed an ambitious plan aimed at ensuring every Ghanaian undergoes at least one annual medical check-up.

This initiative forms a key part of his vision, aiming not only to address current health issues but also to proactively identify potential risks, ultimately promoting a healthier population nationwide.

Under this plan, individuals in Ghana who are not yet registered with the NHIS will be enrolled when they visit the hospital for their annual check-up.

During an exclusive interview with JoyNews' Raymond Acquah, which is set to air soon on Upfront, Dr. Dacosta Aboagye, formerly the Director of Health Promotion at the Ghana Health Service, outlined the fundamental principles guiding this initiative.

At the core of his vision is the conviction that preventive healthcare is not merely a privilege reserved for a select few but rather an essential entitlement for all individuals.

“By shifting the focus from reactive treatment to proactive prevention, Ghana can significantly reduce the burden of disease, improve overall well-being, and enhance productivity across all sectors of society,” he told Raymond Acquah.

The introduction of annual medical check-ups will act as proactive measures, enabling healthcare providers to identify health issues early when they are most manageable.

Additionally, these check-ups offer opportunities for health education and lifestyle guidance, empowering individuals to make informed decisions that support long-term health and well-being

The introduction of annual medical check-ups will act as proactive measures, enabling healthcare providers to identify health issues early when they are most manageable. Additionally, these check-ups offer opportunities for health education and lifestyle guidance, empowering individuals to make informed decisions that support long-term health and well-being.

The NHIA is in the final stages of preparing the details for the launch of this initiative, with plans scheduled to begin as soon as next month.

This initiative is in line with the broader national healthcare objectives outlined in Ghana's health policy framework. By emphasizing preventive measures, the country aims to reduce the prevalence of both communicable and non-communicable diseases, enhance maternal and child health outcomes, and progress towards achieving universal health coverage.

Dr. Dacosta Aboagye, the current Chief Executive of the National Health Insurance Authority, brings a wealth of expertise to his role. With a background in National Health Insurance Financing, Public Health, and Health Promotion from Leeds Beckett University in the UK, he previously served as a lecturer in Public Health & Health Promotion at the University of West London.

Additionally, he holds leadership positions in regional and continental health organizations, including chairing the ECOWAS Risk Communication and Community Engagements network for 15 member states and the Africa CDC Public Health Risk Communication and Community Engagements.