

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.
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.
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:
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】.