Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh has announced that work will commence next year on three new regional hospitals, marking a significant step in the government’s plan to expand healthcare infrastructure across the country.

Speaking at the Government Accountability Series at the Presidency, the minister confirmed that construction is scheduled to start in 2026 in the Savannah, Oti and Western North regions.

These areas are among six regions that have operated without fully fledged regional hospitals since their creation.

Mr Akandoh explained that GH¢600 million has been earmarked in the 2026 budget to launch the first phase of the project, which forms part of President John Dramani Mahama’s broader strategy to strengthen referral services and ensure geographical equity in healthcare provision.

“No region should function without a standard referral centre,” he said. “The government is committed to closing these gaps so that all citizens, regardless of location, can access quality healthcare.”

The minister also underscored government’s determination to complete all ongoing and abandoned health facilities nationwide. He assured the public that long-stalled projects — frequently delayed due to political transitions or funding challenges — would be revived.

Among the key projects set for continuation are the La General Hospital redevelopment, the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital Maternity Block, the Sewua Regional Hospital, and all outstanding Agenda 111 projects, alongside numerous CHPS compounds.

“No uncompleted health facility will be left behind,” Mr Akandoh insisted, adding that the goal is to build a coherent and fully functional healthcare network.

He further indicated that infrastructure expansion is being paired with a policy shift towards universal access to basic healthcare. From next year, free primary healthcare will be introduced under the National Health Insurance Scheme to improve early detection, preventive services and routine care.

This, according to the minister, will ease pressure on secondary and tertiary facilities as new hospitals come onstream.

The combined approach — new regional hospitals alongside the completion of existing projects — forms a major pillar of the 2026 health-focused budget, which the minister described as among the most people-centred in recent times.

“These aren’t simply structures; they represent an investment in national wellbeing,” he noted. “A resilient health system is essential for a strong and productive nation.”

The coming years are expected to see a significant improvement in referral services, emergency care and access to essential medical treatment, particularly in underserved communities.