Accra: The Health Committee of Parliament has, on Monday, shed light on the systemic challenges plaguing Ghana's healthcare system. During a recent visit to the Central Region, the Committee identified key issues, including staff shortages, poor facility conditions, and improper maintenance of health facilities.
According to Ghana News Agency, Dr. Mark Kurt Nawaane, the Chairman of the Health Committee of Parliament, expressed concern over the significant number of unemployed doctors and the severe staff shortages faced by some hospitals. He made these remarks during a courtesy call to the Central Regional Minister in Cape Coast, which was part of a follow-up to earlier oversight visits to health facilities in the country.
Dr. Nawaane noted that some hospitals, such as the Baptist Health Center, are dealing with a high patient load but have insufficient staff. To address this imbalance, he proposed offering incentives or financial clearance to doctors willing to work in underserved areas. He emphasized the need for innovative solutions beyond relying on the central government to motivate healthcare staff.
Additionally, the Committee suggested that healthcare facilities should be allowed to retain and utilize a portion of their generated revenue for maintenance, staff motivation, and service improvement. Dr. Nawaane underscored the capability of these facilities to generate revenue and the importance of using those funds effectively.
As part of the findings and recommendations, Dr. Nawaane, also a Member of Parliament for the Nabdam Constituency, stated that the Committee's efforts aim to inform policy decisions and drive meaningful changes in Ghana's healthcare system. He expressed hope that the Committee's report would lead to improved healthcare services and better patient outcomes.
Mr. Ekow Eduamaoh Panyin Okyere, the Central Regional Minister, also highlighted the poor state of healthcare facilities, noting issues such as improvised accommodations and overwhelmed services at the teaching hospital. He questioned the maintenance culture and the use of revenue generated by healthcare facilities, emphasizing the need for accountability and better resource management.
