The President's nomination for the Ministry of Health is a decision that is of keen interest to many,especially persons within the healthcare sector. This appointment carries immense weight, as the health sector forms a cornerstone of national development. It is imperative that the individual selected for this role possesses a solid background in health. Just as the Ministry of Finance requires an expert in economics, the Ministry of Health demands a leader with in-depth knowledge and expertise in clinical and public health. Such a person would be best equipped to address the pressing challenges confronting our healthcare system in Ghana and to drive meaningful progress.
Key priorities that demand the attention of the next Minister of Health includes but not limited to the following :
Health Infrastructure
Ghana's healthcare infrastructure has expanded over the years, but significant gaps remain. Many facilities, particularly in rural areas, are either under-equipped or in dire need of upgrades. Also health projects at various levels of completion scattered across the country especially (AGENDA 111 PROJECT) started by the previous government should be continued to completion to improve the health infrastructure within the country, which will create space, increase access to healthcare and lead to the subsequent employment of the teaming health professionals who are unemployed.
Recruitment and Retention of Health Workers
Ghana faces a critical shortage of healthcare professionals. With an estimated one doctor for about 6,500 people and the continued migration of health workers abroad, the system is under immense strain. The new minister must prioritize strategies to recruit, train, and retain health workers, especially in underserved regions.
Universal Health Coverage (UHC)
While Ghana’s National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) has made progress, many citizens still struggle with out-of-pocket payments for healthcare services. Expanding NHIS coverage, improving its efficiency, and securing a sustainable healthcare financing , will go a long way to improve access to healthcare and advance health equity, this will progressively improve the country’s efforts to achieve SDG 3 especially target (3.8) by 2030.
Strengthening Primary Health Care (PHC)
Primary health care is the foundation of a resilient healthcare system. Strengthening PHC facilities and ensuring they are well-staffed and equipped will reduce the burden on higher-level hospitals and improve health outcomes at the community level.
Addressing the Burden of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs)
Non-communicable diseases, such as diabetes, hypertension, and cancers, now account for nearly 45% of all deaths in Ghana. Risk factors such as unhealthy diets, physical inactivity, and tobacco use are on the rise. A comprehensive approach that emphasizes prevention, early detection, and management is critical to reducing the burden of NCDs.
The Ministry of Health needs a visionary leader with the right expertise to tackle these pressing needs and more as well as steer the sector toward sustainability and equity. A health professional with a deep understanding of clinical and public health systems is not just an ideal choice ,it is a necessity. This is the leadership that will ensure Ghana’s health system is equipped to meet the needs of its people and support national development.
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