Ghana's Free Primary Healthcare Programme increases clinic attendance in Biakoye

Residents of the Biakoye District in Ghana's Oti Region are increasingly seeking medical treatment at clinics and hospitals rather than relying on shrines and herbalists. This shift follows the implementation of the Free Primary Healthcare Programme, which provides services such as maternal care, health screening, and treatment for non-communicable diseases at no cost.

Rita Ama Narlyn Wurapa, the Biakoye District Director of Health, noted that the change was supported by an intensive house-to-house education campaign conducted by the District Health Directorate. As a result of increased facility attendance, health workers are now diagnosing chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension in patients who previously attributed their symptoms to evil spirits.

Medical officials reported that some patients arrived with complications, such as non-healing wounds from untreated diabetes, after seeking spiritual explanations for their illnesses for extended periods. While acknowledging the traditional role of herbalists, health leadership encourages residents to seek medical assessment first.