The Ministry of Health Ghana has introduced medical kits, including branded red backpacks, to support community health nurses under the newly launched free primary healthcare programme.
Deputy Health Minister, Grace Ayensu-Danquah, said the backpacks are designed to improve the visibility of nurses and equip them with essential tools for delivering care at the community level. The kits include items such as weighing scales, blood pressure monitors, glucometers, flashlights, and raincoats.
She noted that the initiative will enhance early detection of conditions like hypertension and diabetes, helping to reduce congestion at referral hospitals by addressing cases earlier within communities.
To address security concerns, nurses will carry identification cards and be formally introduced to local leaders before deployment. The Minister emphasised that the initiative builds on existing community health nursing structures by strengthening their capacity.
The free primary healthcare programme, launched on April 15, is currently being piloted in 150 districts, alongside the establishment of health kiosks in public areas such as markets and lorry stations.