Govt Considers Expanding NHIS Coverage for Parkinson’s as Stakeholders Call for Stronger Care Policies
Government weighs expanded NHIS support as experts push for better Parkinson’s care and policy reforms
- Government considering expanding NHIS coverage to include more Parkinson’s treatments.
- Stakeholders call for stronger policies, early diagnosis, and improved rehabilitation services.
- Experts highlight shortage of neurologists and need for better support systems for patients and caregivers.
The Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has indicated that government is exploring ways to expand support for Parkinson’s disease under the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), while prioritising broader reforms in primary healthcare delivery.
Speaking at the 2026 commemoration of World Parkinson’s Day in Accra, the minister stressed that the rollout of the Free Primary Health Care initiative would improve access to early diagnosis, prevention, and continuous management of chronic conditions such as Parkinson’s disease.
He explained that although NHIS already covers some medications used in treating Parkinson’s, discussions are ongoing to include additional essential treatments. However, he noted that any expansion would be guided by sustainability considerations to protect the long-term viability of the scheme.
Bridging Gaps in Parkinson’s Care
Mr Akandoh acknowledged progress in Ghana’s health sector but pointed out persistent gaps, particularly in the management of chronic diseases. He emphasised the need for early detection at the primary care level and timely referrals to specialists.
The event, held under the theme “Parkinson’s Without Borders – Access, Dignity, Empowering Lives and Policy Action,” brought together health experts, policymakers, and advocates to address the growing burden of the disease and the need for coordinated action.
Call for Stronger Policies and Support Systems
Stakeholders at the event called for improved policies, increased access to treatment and rehabilitation, and sustained public education to enhance the quality of life for patients and caregivers.
The minister commended the Parkinson’s Support Group Ghana for its advocacy efforts and highlighted government plans to strengthen specialist care through the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, which supports chronic disease management and specialist training.
He added that efforts are underway to equip primary healthcare facilities and district hospitals with essential infrastructure, including physiotherapy units, to improve access to rehabilitation services.
“We must build a health system that responds not only to the disease but also to its social and emotional impact,” he stated.
Experts Highlight Challenges
A Fellow at the Centre for Democratic Development, Kwame Sarpong Asiedu, noted that Parkinson’s disease should be viewed not only as a medical condition but also as a reflection of how well the health system supports patients and families.
He explained that Parkinson’s is the second most common neurodegenerative disease globally, affecting over 10 million people, with age being the primary risk factor. In Ghana, it accounts for a notable proportion of neurological cases, with an average diagnosis age of around 62 years.
Diagnosis and Workforce Gaps
Consultant neurologist at the 37 Military Hospital, Augustina Charway-Felli, identified delayed diagnosis as a major challenge.
She stressed that general practitioners should be equipped to identify symptoms early and begin treatment, especially given the shortage of specialists.
“You do not always need a neurologist to begin diagnosis—general doctors must be empowered to act,” she said.
She added that Ghana’s neurologist-to-population ratio remains far below global recommendations, highlighting the urgent need for more trained specialists.
Importance of Rehabilitation
A lecturer and neuro-physiotherapist at the University of Health and Allied Sciences, Mary Wetani Agoriwo, underscored the critical role of rehabilitation in managing Parkinson’s disease.
She explained that therapies such as physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy help patients maintain independence and improve their quality of life.
Way Forward
Speakers agreed that improving Parkinson’s care in Ghana requires collaboration among government, healthcare professionals, civil society, patients, and caregivers.
As discussions continue around NHIS expansion and healthcare reforms, stakeholders remain hopeful that stronger policies and coordinated action will lead to better care, dignity, and support for those living with Parkinson’s disease.
