The legal framework
Pregnant women are enrolled free of charge in the national health insurance scheme, which covers antenatal care, delivery, caesarean section and postnatal care. The policy has been in place since 2008 and is one of the longest-running of its kind in the region. Maternity leave is twelve weeks, extended for multiple births.
Ghana added free maternal care to the National Health Insurance Scheme in 2008, with automatic enrolment on registration of a pregnancy, and facility deliveries rose substantially. Coverage includes antenatal visits, delivery, caesarean section and postnatal care. Leave is twelve weeks paid, extended for multiple births or complications, and nursing mothers are entitled to a daily break.
Key points
| Free enrolment | Pregnant women are enrolled in the national health insurance scheme free of charge |
|---|---|
| Coverage | Antenatal care, delivery, caesarean section and postnatal care |
| Maternity leave | Twelve weeks, extended for multiple or complicated births |
| Antenatal care | At least four visits; eight contacts in the current standard |
| CHPS compounds | Community-based care points closest to rural households |
| Skilled attendance | High in the south, lower in the northern regions |
| Supplies | Some items are still bought by the family |
In practice
- Enrol in the health insurance scheme as soon as the pregnancy is confirmed: it is free and covers the delivery.
- CHPS compounds provide antenatal care close to home.
- Ask what supplies you need to bring before the delivery date.
- Keep the maternal health record book for every visit.
Cost and coverage
Antenatal care, delivery and caesarean section are covered by the national health insurance scheme.
Recent changes
The insurance scheme has extended the free maternal care package and moved registration and claims onto a digital platform, reducing the paperwork at the point of care.
Where to go
- National Health Insurance Scheme district offices.
- CHPS compounds and health centres.
- District hospitals for caesarean section.
Worth knowing
Free enrolment during pregnancy also covers care unrelated to the pregnancy for the duration of the membership. Very few women use it for that.
Frequently asked questions
How does free maternal care work in Ghana?
A pregnant woman is enrolled in the National Health Insurance Scheme without paying the premium, and the scheme covers antenatal care, delivery including caesarean, and postnatal care at accredited facilities. Register as early in the pregnancy as possible at the district scheme office.
How long is maternity leave?
Twelve weeks at full pay under the Labour Act, extended by at least two weeks for a caesarean or multiple births, plus an hour a day for nursing. Dismissal during maternity leave is prohibited.
Official sources and links
- Ghana.gov — official government portal