Accra, Ghana – In a significant advancement for public healthcare, HealthTech Ghana, in collaboration with the Ministry of Defence, has launched a new diagnostic centre at the 37 Military Hospital. This public-private partnership (PPP) introduces Ghana’s first Philips BlueSeal MRI, a 1.5T helium-free magnetic resonance imaging system, alongside expanded computed tomography (CT) scanning and comprehensive laboratory services, aiming to overcome historical challenges in accessing advanced medical diagnostics.
The initiative, which officially opened on June 8, 2026, is initially offering free MRI scans by appointment for eligible patients until June 20, 2026. This period aims to provide access to the cutting-edge technology while establishing operational protocols.
Addressing Diagnostic Gaps Through Public-Private Partnership
For years, public hospitals in Ghana have grappled with the operational vulnerabilities of advanced medical equipment, including frequent breakdowns and inadequate maintenance pathways. This new PPP model directly confronts these issues by integrating private sector investment with the established infrastructure of the 37 Military Hospital.
The partnership is designed to create a self-sustaining operational model. This approach aims to circumvent the dependency on recurrent government procurement cycles, ensuring continuous functionality and accessibility of critical diagnostic tools.
A Comprehensive Diagnostic Hub
Beyond the headline-grabbing helium-free MRI, the centre offers a broad spectrum of diagnostic services. These include 24/7 CT scanning, Digital X-ray, Mammography, and Ultrasound services. These capabilities are crucial for assessing a wide range of conditions, from stroke and trauma to cancer staging.
The facility also houses integrated laboratory diagnostics covering haematology, biochemistry, and pathology. This holistic approach aims to reduce the need for patients to visit multiple locations for diagnosis, streamlining the healthcare journey.
Transforming Access to Advanced Imaging
Daniel Morkla, CEO of HealthTech Ghana Limited, highlighted the transformative impact of this project. “For too long, a Ghanaian needing an MRI had to choose between paying thousands of cedis for a scan and, in some cases, travelling a long distance to Accra or Kumasi for an MRI or simply going without,” Morkla stated.
He emphasized that the new centre changes this reality. “The MRI is not only the headline, but the full diagnostic suite we have brought to 37 Military Hospital means that a patient can walk in and receive the kind of comprehensive assessment 24/7 that was previously available,” he added.
Morkla also expressed optimism about restoring confidence in public healthcare. “We are not only reopening the MRI Service after many years, but we are restoring trust in what public healthcare in Ghana can achieve,” he remarked.
National Expansion Plans
The 37 Military Hospital project serves as a pilot for a larger national strategy. HealthTech Ghana plans to replicate this PPP model across the country. The long-term objective is to ensure that advanced medical imaging, laboratory diagnostics, and dialysis treatments become accessible to all Ghanaians, irrespective of their income level or geographical location.
Implications for Patients and the Healthcare Sector
This development signifies a major step forward in making advanced medical diagnostics more accessible and affordable within Ghana. Patients can now expect more timely and comprehensive diagnoses, potentially leading to earlier treatment and improved health outcomes.
For the broader healthcare industry in Ghana, this PPP model offers a sustainable framework for upgrading public health infrastructure. It demonstrates a viable pathway for leveraging private investment to enhance public service delivery, setting a precedent for future collaborations.
The success of this initial phase will be crucial in paving the way for the planned national expansion. Observers will be watching to see how the operational efficiencies and patient accessibility are sustained and scaled in the coming years.
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