As part of President John Dramani Mahama’s administration’s accountability to the public, Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has embarked on a series of unannounced visits to health facilities in the Greater Accra Region, aiming to reset and improve the nation’s healthcare sector.
The tour brought to light significant operational challenges and patient frustrations, prompting a direct response from the ministry.
During his visit to the Achimota Hospital, the Minister was met with a chorus of concerns from patients. Many shared stories of enduring extensive delays, with some reporting arrivals as early as 3:00 a.m. and still receiving care eight hours later.
A number of patients also expressed their frustration over the high cost of services despite being registered with the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).
Following his interaction with the patients, Hon. Mintah Akandoh conducted a full tour of the hospital’s wards and held a meeting with management to collaboratively address the issues and chart a path for improved service delivery.
“I have met with the leadership and have had a lengthy discussion with them on this matter and I’m very very sure that after leaving here, they will work on that”, he affirmed, and we are going to support them”.
The tour continued to the Ofankor Health Centre, where similar issues were identified. The Minister noted the absence of senior health superintendents and again engaged with patients who highlighted persistent delays. Furthermore, patients at the Ofankor facility raised concerns about the pricing of drugs and services, calling for a broader range of conditions to be covered by the NHIS card.
In a direct address to the patients, Akandoh acknowledged their appeals. He revealed that government initiatives, including the Mahama Cares Programme and a new free primary healthcare policy, are being implemented to specifically tackle the cost burden of diseases not currently covered by the NHIS.
The Minister assured the public that these measures are designed to provide lasting solutions and improve the accessibility of quality healthcare for all Ghanaians.
Wrapping up his visits, Akandoh charged the leadership of both facilities with the responsibility of improving patient care, assuring them of the government’s steadfast commitment to providing the necessary resources.
Story By: Eugenia Ewoenam Osei
