By Albert Allotey
Accra, Dec 6, GNA – The Alliance for Reproductive Health Rights (ARHR) has urged Ghanaians to vote for a presidential candidate who will prioritise Primary Health Care (PHC) as the foundation and pathway to Universal Health Care (UHC).
“The December 7 election must not be another contest of promises. It is a pivotal moment for the future of Ghanaians. We must demand that health be recognised as a right, not a privilege reserved for the few,” it stated.
The ARHR gave the advice in a statement copied to the Ghana News Agency.
It said, “We need leaders who will move us closer to a nation where access to healthcare is determined not by where you live or how much you earn, but by your inherent right as a citizen to quality health services.”
The statement said PHC was the bedrock of any effective health system, stressing that it ensures that essential health services are available closer to people, irrespective of their economic status.
“In the other hand, UHC represents the goal – a promise that no one will be denied healthcare because of financial hardship.
“However, without a robust PHC system, UHC remains a distant ideal. The two are inextricably linked: PHC is the foundation, while UHC is the structure that ensures health equity for all, particularly for women, girls, and vulnerable populations,” it stated.
The statement said when PHC was weak, the entire health system suffers, and that hospitals become overcrowded, treatment delays increase, and preventable deaths rise.
“Families unwillingly sell their assets or borrow money to pay for basic healthcare. Children miss life-saving immunizations, pregnant women face complications due to a lack of or inadequate skilled professionals, and diseases like malaria and diarrhea continue to claim lives.
The statement noted that this makes the economic cost to the nation staggering, as unhealthy citizens cannot contribute fully to the country’s economic growth.
“This is why our votes must prioritise health. A strong PHC system saves lives and lifts the financial burden on families and national economy,” it emphasised.
The statement said Ghana has committed to achieving UHC by 2030, and that this goal required bold and visionary leaders.
“We need leaders who are committed to improving healthcare for all, with a proven track record of prioritising health, investing in infrastructure, expanding community-based health programmes, and advocating for policies that empower women, girls and vulnerable groups to access care,” it pointed out.
“Fellow Ghanaians, this election is a defining moment in our history. Your vote is your voice. Let it be a vote for leaders who will bring healthcare closer to you and your family. Vote for a Ghana where no one must choose between food and medicine, your children grow up healthy, and every woman can give birth safely,” the statement admonished.
It said, “A healthier Ghana is not a distant dream – it is within our reach. But it starts with you. On December 7, vote wisely. Vote for a Ghana where your village counts, your community thrives, and your health is a top priority.”
GNA