A recently constructed Obrachere CHPS Complex situated in the Central Region, which had previously faced challenges with poor patient participation, experienced record numbers on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, as the Telecel Ghana Foundation introduced its leading Healthfest and Rural Ultrasound Screening programs to the area.

For several months, medical staff at the center had noticed a limited number of patients coming for treatment, as most people from Obrachere and surrounding areas only came when their conditions were critical. The foundation’s efforts brought this around, drawing visitors from 10 neighboring villages for an afternoon of affordable, free medical services.

A total of 575 community members underwent screening for blood pressure, blood sugar levels, body temperature, weight, heart rate, typhoid, Hepatitis B, and malaria. Additionally, 40 pregnant women were provided with complimentary ultrasound examinations, and 347 individuals signed up, updated, or obtained new National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) cards, enabling them to access medical services in the future without facing economic difficulties.

Dr. Bernard, the recently assigned Physician Assistant at the CHPS Complex, referred to the event as a significant milestone for the center. “Participation here has consistently been minimal, yet today we witnessed full attendance — including seniors, young people, moms, and dads. Individuals are departing not just with medical care but also with health insurance,” he mentioned.

Many individuals appeared sick yet couldn’t afford to go to the hospital. Given the usual small number of visitors at the CHPS Compound, this event has provided much-needed support to the neighborhood. Free NHIS services allow locals to come back here when they feel ill without concern over expenses.

The foundation’s Healthfest is an initiative designed to bridge healthcare access gaps in underserved areas by combining free diagnostics, consultations and treatment with NHIS enrolment. This approach not only addresses urgent health needs but also encourages regular use of local health facilities, creating long-term behavioural changes.

Rita Agyeiwaa Rockson, Director of the Telecel Ghana Foundation’s Sustainability and External Communications department, highlighted the significance of maintaining healthcare availability past temporary initiatives. “Our objective goes beyond delivering medical services to underprivileged areas; it involves eliminating obstacles that hinder individuals from obtaining necessary care. Through offering complimentary check-ups along with NHIS enrollment, we’re enabling locals to receive immediate treatment and guaranteeing their ability to visit the clinic as needed going forward.”

Some residents of the community thanked those who stepped in to help. Mary, a expectant mother from a neighboring village, mentioned that her previous ultrasound in June had cost GH¢50, an amount she couldn’t cover this month. “Now, it’s entirely free. Many people around here can’t afford such care,” she remarked.

Kwame Abbey, who is the parent of three children, stated: “Everyone received medical care at no cost. I actually arrived prepared to make payment, yet I wasn’t asked for a single penny. Had we visited the hospital, expenses would have been significant because none of us have health coverage. Due to the efforts of the Telecel Ghana Foundation, my mother, grandmother, and all my kids received free treatment.”

At the close of the day, the previously quiet Obrachere CHPS Complex became lively, with the medical team assured that the transformation will endure.

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