A beneficiary of the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, popularly known as MahamaCare, has expressed gratitude to President John Dramani Mahama after the Fund covered the cost of her mother's cancer treatment, including chemotherapy.

The beneficiary said her family did not have to pay for the treatment, describing the financial assistance as a major relief during a difficult period in their lives.

“We paid nothing for chemotherapy and all other treatments,” she said, highlighting the support provided through the government-backed healthcare initiative.

Her testimony adds to growing accounts from patients and families who have received financial assistance for specialised medical care through the Ghana Medical Trust Fund.

MahamaCare Seeks to Reduce the Cost of Cancer Treatment

The Ghana Medical Trust Fund was established under the Ghana Medical Trust Fund Act, 2025 (Act 1144), to provide financial support for specialised treatment of chronic and non-communicable diseases that are not fully covered by the National Health Insurance Scheme.

Popularly known as MahamaCare, the initiative was introduced under President John Dramani Mahama's administration to reduce the financial pressure on families dealing with serious medical conditions.

Cancer treatment can involve expensive procedures, diagnostic investigations, specialist consultations and medications, making it difficult for some households to afford the full cost of care.

Through the Fund, eligible patients can receive support for approved treatment packages at participating healthcare facilities.

What Treatments Does the Fund Cover?

According to information published by the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, its support may include specialist consultations, diagnostic investigations, approved medicines, hospital admission, surgical procedures and other specialised treatments.

The Fund's current programmes include support for selected cancers, with eligibility and treatment coverage determined through medical assessment and approved treatment pathways.

Patients must be assessed and referred by a specialist before their applications are considered. The Fund also requires prior authorisation for applicable treatments.

The initiative complements the National Health Insurance Scheme rather than replacing it.

Beneficiaries Encouraged to Understand the Application Process

The Ghana Medical Trust Fund says eligible patients should visit an appropriate health facility for assessment by a specialist, who can initiate the application process.

Applications are reviewed by the Fund, and approved treatment costs are paid directly to participating healthcare providers.

The Fund has also clarified that coverage is based on approved services and treatment packages. Patients should therefore confirm which procedures and expenses have been authorised before treatment begins.

Its support is intended to reduce the financial burden associated with specialised healthcare and improve access to treatment for people who might otherwise struggle to afford it.

A Family's Experience Highlights the Importance of Healthcare Support

For the beneficiary whose mother's treatment was covered, the experience has become a reason to express gratitude for the financial assistance received.

Her account highlights the difficulties families can face when a loved one requires prolonged and expensive medical care.

As more Ghanaians learn about the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, public awareness of its eligibility requirements and application procedures will be important in helping qualified patients access the support available.

The programme's impact will ultimately depend on its ability to reach eligible patients, maintain sustainable funding and ensure that approved treatment is accessible across the country.