Palliative care is an essential component of Universal Health Coverage (UHC), ensuring that
individuals with life-limiting illnesses receive the medical, emotional, social, and spiritual care
they need. In Ghana, the Ghana Palliative Care Association (GPCA) is at the forefront of driving
efforts to develop policies and advocate for quality palliative care services nationwide. Despite
its importance, palliative care remains underdeveloped, making policy formulation and sustained
advocacy crucial.
Why Palliative Care Matters in Ghana
Ghana’s healthcare system is increasingly encountering chronic and terminal illnesses such as
cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and diabetes, leading to a growing need for palliative care
services. Palliative care provides relief from pain, psychological support, and improved quality
of life for patients and their families. It also addresses gaps in end-of-life care, ensuring that
individuals can live with dignity and comfort.
In line with Ghana’s commitment to UHC under the Ministry of Health’s UHC Policy
Framework (2020-2030), integrating palliative care into the healthcare system is not just a moral
responsibility—it is a policy imperative.
The Policy Development Process
The development of a national palliative care policy in Ghana follows a deliberate, multi-
stakeholder approach that aligns with international frameworks such as the World Health
Organization’s guidelines on palliative care integration. The GPCA is championing this effort
through collaboration with key actors, including the Ministry of Health, the Ghana Health
Service, civil society, and international partners.
- Policy Framework and National Guidelines
The GPCA is working to develop national policies and clinical guidelines that set the standards
for palliative care delivery. These frameworks emphasize:
Integration into the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) to promote access and
affordability.
Standardization of care across public and private healthcare facilities.
Patient-centered models that promote community-based and home-based care. - Inclusion in National Health Programs
The association advocates for the recognition of palliative care as a core component of Ghana’s
national health strategy. This involves lobbying for palliative care services to be included in the
NHIS benefit package, ensuring financial protection for patients who need long-term care and
support.
- Capacity Building and Workforce Development
Effective policy implementation requires a skilled workforce. Therefore, the GPCA is
advocating for the inclusion of palliative care training in medical and nursing curricula at all
levels. Developing a well-trained workforce through standardized training programs ensures that
healthcare professionals are equipped to deliver compassionate and quality care.
Advocacy for Policy Change and Support
To translate policy into meaningful action, advocacy plays a pivotal role. The GPCA’s advocacy
efforts focus on raising awareness, mobilizing resources, and influencing policy decisions to
promote the palliative care agenda. - Multi-Stakeholder Engagement and Partnerships
The GPCA actively collaborates with stakeholders, including government bodies, non-
governmental organizations (NGOs), and private healthcare providers. Through strategic
partnerships with organizations like Global Partners in Care and White Valley Care Limited,
GPCA ensures sustainable resource mobilization and policy alignment.
The association also engages community leaders, religious bodies, and traditional healers to raise
awareness about the importance of palliative care. - Public Awareness Campaigns
Advocacy campaigns are essential to change perceptions about palliative care. The GPCA
organizes community outreach programs and media engagements to educate the public about the
benefits of palliative care. October has been declared a month to celebrate palliative care in
Ghana, featuring awareness activities that promote community involvement and engagement. - Engagement with Policymakers
The GPCA works closely with the Ministry of Health, Parliament, and other relevant authorities
to push for policy reforms. Notably, the association is making significant strides by presenting its
strategic plans to the Ghana Health Service, positioning itself as a key partner in the
implementation of a National Palliative Care Program.
Overcoming Challenges
Developing and advocating for palliative care policies in Ghana comes with challenges. These
include limited awareness about palliative care, insufficient funding, and inadequate
infrastructure. Additionally, there is a need for robust monitoring and evaluation systems to track
progress and ensure accountability.
However, with growing recognition of the importance of palliative care and the support of
strategic partners, the GPCA is committed to overcoming these barriers. By promoting
sustainable policy frameworks and engaging with stakeholders across sectors, the association is
building momentum toward the full integration of palliative care into Ghana’s healthcare system.
The Way Forward: Building a Compassionate Healthcare
System
The GPCA’s mission is to ensure that every individual in need of palliative care can access
quality services, regardless of location or financial status. The association’s efforts in policy
development and advocacy are pivotal in achieving this vision.
The way forward involves:
- Scaling up training programs for healthcare providers and caregivers to build a
competent workforce. - Monitoring and evaluating the implementation of policies to ensure continuous
improvement. - Strengthening partnerships with the private sector, government, and international
organizations to secure sustainable funding and technical support.
With sustained advocacy and effective policies, Ghana can establish a healthcare system that
offers compassionate and comprehensive care for all. The GPCA remains committed to making
this vision a reality by leading the charge toward policy development and the national integration
of palliative care services.
Conclusion
Palliative care is no longer a luxury—it is a necessity that ensures patients with chronic or life-
limiting conditions can live with dignity and peace. Through the efforts of the Ghana Palliative
Care Association, significant progress is being made toward developing policies and advocating
for palliative care inclusion in Ghana’s healthcare system.
Together, with the right policies, partnerships, and advocacy, we can create a future where
palliative care becomes an integral part of healthcare delivery—ensuring that no patient is left
behind.
Reference:
Ghana Universal Health Coverage Policy: Integration of palliative care services as a key
element of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) to ensure access to quality care for those with life-
threatening conditions and their families. Efforts align with UHC principles, focusing on
affordability and accessibility without financial hardship.
Source: ehospice, “Speaking up for palliative care as part of Universal Health
Coverage”【12】.
Ghana Palliative Care Association (GPCA): GPCA’s advocacy and strategic planning
efforts to develop a national policy, promote collaborations with public and private partners, and
enhance service delivery models such as home-based care and caregiver certification systems.
Source: ehospice article on GPCA initiatives【10】.
Lancaster University & COMPASS-Ghana Collaboration: Research collaboration
involving COMPASS-Ghana and Lancaster University highlights the significance of culturally
appropriate palliative care. This project aims to integrate palliative care into the national policy
framework through community involvement and stakeholder partnerships.
Source: Research Portal of Lancaster University, “Advancing Palliative Care in
Ghana”【11】.
National Health Policies and UHC Monitoring: Global initiatives stress the importance of
including palliative care in national health plans and monitoring mechanisms to ensure universal
coverage. Advocacy from bodies like the Worldwide Hospice Palliative Care Alliance promotes
the inclusion of essential palliative services.
Source: ehospice, “Palliative care at the High-Level Political Forum on SDGs”【12】.
