Government Makes Major Interventions in Health Sector – Health Minister

The Minister for Health, Dr. Bernard Okoe-Boye, has announced significant progress in Ghana’s healthcare sector, citing substantial investments in infrastructure and digital solutions as key drivers of this improvement.

Speaking at a Ministry of Information press briefing in Accra on Wednesday, September 18, 2024, Dr. Okoe-Boye highlighted several completed projects, including the Kumawu and Fomena District Hospitals, which were initiated by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and completed under the New Patriotic Party (NPP) government.

“Kumawu District Hospital, which was less than 30% complete when we assumed office, is now fully operational. Fomena Hospital, which was about 35% complete, has also been finished,” Dr. Okoe-Boye revealed. He further mentioned the successful upgrade of other hospitals, including the completion of phase two of the Bolgatanga Hospital at a cost of $20 million, now equipped with a fully operational CT scan.

Specialized Healthcare and Digital Solutions

The Health Minister also emphasized the government’s focus on specialized healthcare services, particularly through the construction of cutting-edge facilities like the urology and nephrology centres at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital.

“The new urology centre, with 71 beds and two fully operational theatres, will significantly reduce waiting times and improve patient outcomes,” he stated.

He added that innovative technologies, such as drone deliveries, are being utilized to transport life-saving medicines to remote areas, improving access to medical supplies, especially during emergencies.

***Hon Bernard Oko Boye, Minister for Health***

Expansion of National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS)

Dr. Okoe-Boye also disclosed the government’s plan to roll out herbal medicines under the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS). This move aims to provide alternative treatment options for patients while reducing the cost burden on Ghanaians.

“We are also integrating mental health treatment under the NHIS, which will include the coverage of related medications,” the minister explained.

Addressing the Surplus of Nurses

On the issue of employment, Dr. Okoe-Boye revealed that Ghana produces over 55,000 nurses annually, a number exceeding the local demand. To address this, the Ministry of Health has signed agreements with countries like Barbados, Seychelles, Jamaica, Germany, and the UK to export surplus nurses.

“These agreements will allow Ghanaian nurses to work abroad while contributing remittances back to the country, which will strengthen our economy and foreign exchange reserves,” the minister said.

Job Creation through Health Projects

The ongoing “Agenda 111” hospital project, Dr. Okoe-Boye noted, will provide employment for approximately 60,000 health workers once completed. He also assured Ghanaians of the government’s commitment to completing the reconstruction of La General Hospital and other key projects within their stipulated timelines.

**Hon Fatimatu Abubakar, Minister for Information**

The Minister underscored the government’s determination to bring quality healthcare closer to the people, noting that every Ghanaian deserves access to affordable and effective medical care.