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The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) on Thursday,
September 18, 2025, hosted a high-level meeting at its head office to explore
the potential nationwide adoption of HeartLINK+, an innovative AI-enabled
diagnostic kit designed to transform cardiovascular healthcare in Ghana.
The technology was presented by Dr. Michael Amponsah, a
Ghanaian cardiologist practising in the United States, together with Mr.
Richard Oduro of AGA Global. HeartLINK+ is a smart, portable, and easy-to-use
device capable of performing a range of heart-related tests with minimal
resources.
The technology has already been piloted in Nsawam and Shai Osudoku,
and is currently in use across the United States.
“This technology is smart, portable, and easy to train
people in,” said Dr. Amponsah. “With Ghana’s ratio of one cardiologist to every
one million citizens, HeartLINK+ will be instrumental in bridging the gap by
making heart health diagnostics available at the most basic level of care from
community health centres to clinics.”
Dr. Amponsah and Mr. Oduro expressed optimism that a
partnership with NHIA would pave the way for nationwide rollout and ease the
financial burden on Ghanaians seeking cardiovascular care.
Speaking at the meeting, Mr. William Omane Agyekum, Director
for PHIS at NHIA, emphasised the importance of embracing innovation.
“Technology has become a part of our lives and has taken
over every aspect of our existence, including health. Cardiovascular services
are particularly difficult to replicate at lower levels of care. This
technology will be a game changer.”
Dr. Senanu Kwesi Djokoto, Deputy Chief Executive for
Operations at NHIA, also highlighted the alignment between HeartLINK+ and
government priorities.
“The rural rollout of this technology speaks to its vision,
ensuring accessibility for everyone at every level. It ties directly into the
President’s health vision and the Ghana Medical Trust Fund.
NHIA is open to
adopting this technology and engaging key stakeholders, including the Ministry
of Health and Ghana Health Service,” he noted.
If adopted, HeartLINK+ is expected to significantly improve
early detection, prevention, and treatment of cardiovascular diseases
nationwide, reduce heart-related deaths, and promote greater health equity.
Source: Valentine Sena Agbenu
Photo: Ebenezer Nyarko Danso
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