Kumasi: For early detection of infections of the ear, nose, and throat, authorities are calling for strategic positioning of professionals at health facilities to prevent complications. Diseases affecting the ear, nose, and throat (ENT) are a global phenomenon, with more than 1.5 billion people living with hearing loss. Above 20 million people are afflicted with chronic otitis media, up to 40 percent suffer from allergic rhinitis, and 350,000 succumb to head and neck cancer annually.
According to Ghana News Agency, ENT diseases have become an important public health concern where the Ghanaian health system faces a significant challenge due to the shortage of professional services. The GRNMA reports that there are less than 50 ENT surgeons and a little over 400 ENT nurses in the country. This shortfall is critical as ENT diseases are among the most common reasons for visits to health facilities.
Dr. Regina Darko Asante, an ENT Specialist, speaking at the 11th Annual Conference and Scientific Session of the Ear, Nose and Throat Nurses Society, Ghana, in Kumasi, emphasized that investing in specialized nurses, including ENT professionals, improves health outcomes and builds economic resilience. She noted the economic burden of untreated ENT conditions, highlighting how they affect education, workplace efficiency, and community economic activity.
Dr. Asante called for stakeholders, particularly the Ministry of Health and health administrators, to prioritize the ENT nurse program in resource allocation. She advocated for the creation of sustainable funding mechanisms for continuing professional education and urged the GRNA to champion specialized nursing practice. This includes ensuring ENT nurses have a strong voice in policy discussions and supporting research that demonstrates the impact and cost-effectiveness of specialized nursing roles.
Mrs. Esther Birikorang, National Chairperson of the Ear, Nose and Throat Nurses Society, Ghana, acknowledged the challenges faced by professionals due to resource limitations and the evolving demands of modern healthcare. Nonetheless, she commended their resilience and resourcefulness. She reiterated the Association's request for more ENT professionals to address rising cases and the post-COVID-19 impact on the healthcare delivery system.
The five-day event is being held under the theme "Strengthening ENT Nurses - As Catalyst for Health and Economic Resilience."
