Duayaw-Nkwanta: The Ghana Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) Alliance has reiterated the importance of incorporating NCDs into the medication lists covered by the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS). The Alliance, a civil society organization dedicated to the prevention and control of NCDs in Ghana, emphasized the critical need for government action to address this growing health concern.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mrs. Ama Nyarko, an advocate for NCDs and a member of the Alliance, highlighted that NCDs remain a leading cause of death in Ghana. She urged the government to make NCDs a priority in its health initiatives, particularly for underserved communities where patients often struggle to afford necessary medications.
Mrs. Nyarko’s comments followed a day’s training workshop organized by the Alliance in Duayaw-Nkwanta, located in the Ahafo Region. The workshop aimed to empower members of the Alliance and individuals living with NCDs, equipping them to take proactive roles in preventing and controlling NCDs within the Tano North Municipality.
“We can’t continue to neglect NCDs and allow patients to die preventable and needless deaths,” Mrs. Nyarko stated, calling on the Ministry of Health to also focus on the prevention of NCDs.
Mr. Christopher Agbega, the Coordinator for the Alliance, underscored the significance of the training. He noted that it was designed to enhance the wellbeing of those living with NCDs. He also expressed concern over the stigmatization and discrimination faced by individuals with NCDs, urging a collective effort to combat this stigma. He noted that such societal attitudes contribute significantly to the increasing mortality rates associated with NCDs.