Anidaso Foundation Advocates for NHIS Coverage of Parkinson’s Medication at "Pedal for Parkinson’s 2026"



Story by Azaglo Michael 

The Anidaso Parkinson’s Disease Foundation, in collaboration with its strategic partners, successfully hosted the “Pedal for Parkinson’s 2026” event to commemorate World Parkinson’s Disease Day.


Held under the theme “Moving Together for Hope,” the initiative combined community cycling with a high-level advocacy campaign to tackle the rising costs of treatment and the persistent social stigma surrounding the condition.


‎​Addressing the press at the University of Ghana Sports Grounds, Dr. Andrew Jacobs Bilson, Pharmacist and Executive Secretary of the Anidaso Foundation, issued a formal plea to the government regarding the prohibitive cost of medication.


Dr. Andrew Jacobs Bilson, Pharmacist and Executive Secretary of the Anidaso Foundation


‎​Currently, Parkinson’s patients face monthly medication costs averaging 800 Ghana Cedis,a figure Dr. Bilson noted is far beyond the reach of the average Ghanaian household.



‎​"We are calling on the government to urgently consider the high price of Parkinson’s medication. We plead for these essential drugs to be placed on the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) list to ensure they are accessible to those who need them most."


‎​Debunking Myths Through Movement

‎​The event utilized cycling as a powerful metaphor for the physical activity required to manage the disease.


Dr. Bilson emphasized that the goal was to engage the general public in active awareness, stressing that the condition is strictly medical.



Dr. Bilson clarified that Parkinson’s is a neurological condition, not the result of "evil spirits."​Ongoing Research: While a definitive cure is still being researched, the Foundation remains committed to providing hope and support.



The public was advised to seek professional medical consultation immediately upon noticing early symptoms.


‎​As the foundation looks toward the future, it is seeking increased collaboration from stakeholders both within Ghana and internationally.



The "Pedal for Parkinson's" initiative serves as a reminder that community support and policy reform are the two most critical wheels in the journey toward better patient outcomes.

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Beyond the cycling, a critical message was sent to the government: Parkinson’s medication at 800 GHS/month is unaffordable for many.


‎​Dr. Andrew Jacobs Bilson is calling for these life-changing drugs to be added to the NHIS list. It’s time to end the stigma and start the support.




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