Government health tricycles not ambulances – GHS sets record straight

The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has dismissed viral social media reports suggesting that tricycles procured under the government’s Free Primary Health Care initiative are being used as ambulances.

In a press release issued on April 18, 2026, the Service described the claims as false and misleading, clarifying that the tricycles were not acquired for ambulance services.

According to the GHS, the tricycles form part of a broader strategy to improve healthcare delivery at the community level, particularly in rural and hard-to-reach areas.

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“These FPHC tricycles are not ambulances and have not been procured to be used as such,” the statement emphasised, adding that the Service has, over the years, successfully deployed similar means of transport for outreach services.

The initiative is being rolled out under the government’s Free Primary Health Care policy, with the deployment of tricycles and motorbikes aimed at strengthening last-mile service delivery across the country.

The GHS explained that the intervention is designed to ensure equitable access to quality healthcare, especially for people in underserved communities.

Unlike motorbikes, the tricycles are equipped with cargo compartments to facilitate the transportation of essential medical supplies such as vaccines, diagnostic tools, cold chain equipment, and health education materials.

The Service noted that this innovation will significantly improve efficiency and reduce logistical challenges faced by frontline health workers, particularly Community Health Nurses under the Community-based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) system.

Additionally, the tricycles are said to offer improved safety and stability on difficult terrains and are more user-friendly for a wider range of health workers, including female personnel. They also provide protection against harsh weather conditions such as heavy rains and extreme heat.

The GHS, together with the Ministry of Health, has therefore urged the public to disregard misinformation surrounding the initiative.

President John Dramani Mahama has clarified that tricycles deployed under the Free Primary Health Care programme are not ambulances, but are intended to support the movement of health workers and volunteers between communities for screening and outreach services. pic.twitter.com/K5FQVs25eA

— The1957News (@The1957News) April 18, 2026