The Upper East Regional Minister, Donatus Akamugri Atanga, has directed immediate action to address critical challenges facing the health sector in the region, particularly staffing shortages in underserved communities.
Speaking at the opening of the 2025 Annual Performance Review Meeting of the Ghana Health Service in Bolgatanga, the minister expressed concern over the lack of health personnel in some areas, including the Binduri enclave. He described the situation as unacceptable and stressed that no community should be left without access to healthcare.
He assured that steps would be taken to provide adequate security for health workers posted to such areas to enable them to deliver services effectively.
“Health is very significant; we cannot leave an area without health personnel. I am really not happy that that is the situation. That should be addressed immediately from here because people are living there. So we can guarantee that your workers who will be there must be provided the necessary security to also provide health service to the people there,” he said.
The minister also acknowledged a range of challenges raised by health officials, including inadequate staffing, limited funding, and the high cost of nutrition interventions. He further highlighted the lack of essential equipment, including cold chain systems at the district level, and the absence of district hospitals in several areas.
Concerns over poor road networks affecting access to healthcare, under-resourced ambulance services, delays in the release of funds from the National Health Insurance Scheme, and general transport constraints were also noted.
Additionally, the minister recognised calls from health workers for improved welfare, including life insurance and special risk allowances, particularly for those working under difficult and potentially dangerous conditions.
He noted that high staff attrition, lack of accommodation for health personnel, and inadequate office space continue to undermine service delivery across the region.
Mr. Atanga assured stakeholders that issues within the mandate of the Regional Coordinating Council would be addressed locally, while others would be escalated to the national level for intervention.
“I am keenly taking whatever you are doing, so that those that I can address at the regional level will do so. Those that we cannot address, we will let it get to the national level for attention. That is the purpose for which you are reviewing. If not this, then what is the use?” he said.
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