SONA 2026: Mahama Directs Health Facilities Not to Turn Away Patients
President Mahama orders urgent reforms and rollout of free primary healthcare to improve access and end the “no bed” syndrome
- Mahama ordered that no patient should be denied emergency care, regardless of bed shortages
- Government will implement a free primary healthcare programme to remove cost barriers and improve access
- Plans include scaling up the Ghana Medical Trust Fund and expanding Ridge Hospital and cardiac care services
President John Dramani Mahama has directed health facilities across the country not to deny patients emergency care, stressing that treatment must be provided regardless of bed shortages.
His remarks follow the death of 29-year-old Charles Amissah, who was reportedly refused treatment at three major hospitals in Accra due to lack of space.
Speaking during his State of the Nation Address on Friday, February 27, President Mahama outlined government plans to improve healthcare access and eliminate barriers that prevent patients from receiving timely treatment. He announced that a free primary healthcare programme will be fully implemented this year to remove financial obstacles at the primary care level while strengthening disease prevention, screening, and health education.
The President also said the Ghana Medical Trust Fund will be expanded and access to advanced heart care services—including cardiac catheterisation at Tamale Teaching Hospital, Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, and Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital—will be improved. These measures are intended to reduce the need for overseas referrals and position Ghana as a hub for specialised medical care in the region.
Mahama further instructed the Ministry of Health to introduce clear protocols to address the persistent “no bed” challenge, emphasizing that emergency cases must be attended to immediately.
“You do not need a comfortable bed to save a life. No patient must be turned away from any health facility they report to,” he stated.
To boost healthcare capacity, the President announced Phase Two of the Ridge Hospital expansion project, which will increase bed capacity and enhance service delivery at the facility.
