The Bolgatanga East District Health Directorate is raising concerns over the critical shortage of mental health professionals in the district. With a staggering patient load of 256, the directorate is struggling to manage with only four mental health staff.
Speaking on behalf of the District Health Director, Yeribu Hrriette, Godfred Gamson highlighted this worrying situation during the commissioning ceremony of the Blessed Home Wellness Centre in the district.
The facility, located in the Zuarungu-Gonno community, aims to address the growing impact of drug abuse and mental health challenges in the Upper East Region.
According to Mr. Gamson, the severe shortage of mental health professionals raises concerns about the quality of care patients are receiving. He noted that the four mental health nurses are bearing an unsustainable workload, which could lead to burnout and reduce the effectiveness of treatment.
“We have five sub-districts here in Bolga East, and within these five sub-districts, only four mental health nurses are managing 256 patients. So, the Blessed Home Wellness Centre will be of great help in supporting the various facilities and our professionals. Four people taking care of 256 patients is simply inadequate,” he said.
Speaking exclusively to our reporter, David Azure, the Bolgatanga East District Health Director, Yeribu Hrriette, confirmed the inadequate staffing situation. She described the commissioning of the Blessed Home Wellness Centre as a welcome development that will significantly support the district, in addition to other private health facilities.
Madam Yeribu emphasized that as the demand for mental health services continues to grow, relevant authorities must take decisive action to address the shortage of professionals in this critical area. She also expressed her readiness to collaborate effectively with the Blessed Home Wellness Centre to ensure the delivery of quality healthcare.
Source: A1Radioonline.com | 101.1MHz | David Azure | Zuarungu-Gonno |
