Over 430 residents from Yeji-Nchamba and nearby communities in the Bono East Region have benefited from the HealthFest initiative organized by the Telecel Ghana Foundation. The outreach took place at the Nchamba Community-based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) facility.
The program provided free medical screenings, including checks for blood pressure, malaria, hepatitis B, typhoid, and general health assessments. HealthFest is designed to promote early detection and preventive care, particularly in underserved areas where access to healthcare is limited by distance, cost, and infrastructure challenges.
For many residents, it was their first health check in years. Mallam Nuru Yahaya of Yeji-Nchamba described the initiative as a “relief brought to our doorstep,” emphasizing that traveling long distances to access healthcare is often difficult and costly.
By bringing services directly to the community, HealthFest reduces both financial and logistical barriers, enabling early diagnosis and timely treatment. Suzana Akudugu, officer-in-charge at Nchamba CHPS, noted that the initiative has strengthened the delivery of primary healthcare, allowing residents to receive routine check-ups they might otherwise delay for months.
The outreach is part of the Foundation’s Connected Health pillar, which aims to improve healthcare access, encourage preventive care, and increase enrollment in the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS). During the event, 359 residents were able to register, renew, or replace their NHIS cards on-site, ensuring uninterrupted access to follow-up care.
Rita Agyeiwaa Rockson, Head of Foundation, Sustainability, and External Communications, highlighted the importance of equitable healthcare access. She stressed that initiatives like HealthFest empower residents to take control of their health, emphasizing preventive care as a key tool in reducing long-term medical complications and easing pressure on health facilities.
Through programs such as HealthFest, the Telecel Ghana Foundation continues to expand quality healthcare services to remote communities, helping residents prioritize their health and overall wellbeing.
Source: joynews
