The Health Minister, Dr. Bernard Okoe Boye, and the Minister of State at the Energy Ministry, Herbert Krapah have engaged in high-level discussions to find a permanent solution to the issue of debt owed by health facilities, to ensure the continuous and sustainable supply of power.

This follows a critical intervention by Dr. Okoe Boye to restore power to the Lekma Hospital, which had been disconnected due to an outstanding debt of approximately 3 million cedis, forcing the hospital to rely on its generator for the entire day on Wednesday, July 17, 2024.

Dr. Okoe Boye, who is also the former Member of Parliament for the area, swiftly moved to address the power cut through engagements with the Energy Ministry. The prompt action not only restored power to the hospital but also highlighted the urgent need for a sustainable solution to the financial challenges faced by health facilities in covering their utility costs.

Sources have disclosed that following Dr. Okoe Boye’s intervention, the matter was raised at the cabinet level, and frantic steps are being taken to address the broader issue of power supply and payment by public health facilities across the country.
According to the Electricity Company of Ghana, a total of 91 health facilities nationwide are indebted to it, with a combined outstanding amount of GH¢261 million.

Among the prominent hospitals listed are the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, the 37 Military Hospital and Ridge Hospital in the Greater Accra region; Komfo Anokye and Manhyia Government Hospitals in the Ashanti region; Ho Teaching Hospital in the Volta region; and Kibi Government Hospital in the Eastern region.

In an earlier interview on Adom FM, Isaac Baah Offei, the Public Relations Officer of the Health Ministry said efforts to settle the debts have been initiated, and meetings are being held with all affected hospitals.
“We are working closely with the Energy Ministry and ECG to find a sustainable solution to this issue.” Mr Baah Offei noted

The collaboration between the Health and Energy Ministers is seen as a significant step towards ensuring that health facilities across the country are not disrupted by power cuts due to financial constraints. The discussions and actions taken by the government are expected to lead to a more stable and reliable healthcare system, benefiting both staff and patients.

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The Association of Oil Marketing Companies (AOMC) has conducted a surprise inspection of fuel stations and LPG refilling plants in the Ashanti Region. 

The exercise dubbed “Mystery Shopping”, led by AOMC CEO Dr. Riverson Oppong, is to ensure compliance with industry standards for safety, customer service, and overall operations. The inspection team, including AOMC Head of Compliance & Operations Tizard Ansah and Compliance Officers Billey Al-Assad and Courage Agblevor, meticulously evaluated various aspects of the facilities.

Beyond the usual checks on fuel pumps and dispensers, the team assessed staff friendliness, knowledge, and professionalism, as well as the cleanliness of customer service areas and tank farms. Safety was a top priority. The team observed staff adherence to safety protocols, including the use of proper gear and the availability of essential safety equipment like fire extinguishers and spill kits.

 Compliance with National Petroleum Authority (NPA) guidelines was strictly monitored. To gain deeper insights into the industry’s challenges, the AOMC team engaged with station managers to understand operational difficulties and areas needing improvement. 

The AOMCs is committed to using the findings to develop training programs, enhance customer service, and improve safety standards across the entire downstream petroleum industry.

“This mystery shopping program is a significant step towards creating a benchmark for the industry,” said AOMC CEO. Dr. Riverson Oppong. 

 “By prioritizing customer experience, compliance, and operational efficiency, we aim to benefit consumers through improved service, a safer environment, and consistent quality standards.” he added. 

The AOMCs believes a well-regulated petroleum industry is vital for economic growth and job creation. By boosting consumer confidence and attracting investments, the association aims to contribute to increased employment opportunities in the sector.

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The Ketu North Municipal Hospital, located in Weta, is experiencing a severe power crisis following the breakdown of its transformer. The hospital’s management is considering a complete shutdown if the Ministry of Health and the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) fail to take immediate action.

According to sources, the hospital urgently requires financial support from the central government to procure a new transformer and prevent a total shutdown. The facility has been off the national grid for over a month after a thunderstorm destroyed its transformer. Currently, the hospital is operating on a generator, which is costly and has depleted its funds.

A concerned worker, speaking anonymously, said, “The hospital needs help or it may shut down or withdraw services.” The generator power plant being used is very expensive and the hospital is struggling to cope. Health delivery is affected, and services are being withdrawn, with the community standing to suffer.

The hospital, which serves as a referral center for numerous health facilities within and outside the Ketu North area, has been struggling with this energy crisis for over a month. Both the ECG and the Sector Ministry are aware of the issue, but no action has been taken.

The hospital began operations just two years ago, with President Akufo-Addo commissioning the €14.5 million, 60-bed facility on October 20, 2020, funded by the Raiffeisen Bank of Austria. The hospital is equipped with various departments including administration, outpatient and emergency services, inpatient wards for males, females, and pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, surgery with an intensive care unit, physiotherapy, pharmacy, diagnostic services, logistics buildings, a mortuary, and staff facilities.

The situation is critical, and immediate intervention is necessary to ensure that the hospital continues to provide essential healthcare services to the community.

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World Brain Day, observed annually on July 22, focuses on raising awareness and educating the public about neurological disorders and brain health. This year’s theme, “Brain Health and Prevention: Protecting Your Future,” emphasizes the importance of maintaining a healthy brain to prevent various neurological disorders.

On #GTVBreakfast, Kafui Dey engaged in an insightful discussion with two neurologists: Prof. Albert Akpalu, Consultant Neurologist at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, and Dr. Freda Dodd-Glover, also a Neurologist at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital.

Significance of World Brain Day

Prof. Akpalu highlighted that World Brain Day serves as a crucial platform to bring attention to brain health. He emphasized that raising awareness about brain health is vital because it affects every aspect of our lives, from cognitive function to emotional well-being. Dr. Dodd-Glover added that understanding brain health can help in early detection and prevention of neurological disorders, ultimately improving quality of life.

Aim of This Year’s Theme: “Brain Health and Prevention: Protecting Your Future”

Dr. Dodd-Glover explained that this year’s theme aims to educate people on how to maintain a healthy brain through preventive measures. She stressed the importance of lifestyle choices in preventing brain-related issues and highlighted the need for regular check-ups and early interventions.

Brain Health and Neurological Disorders

Prof. Akpalu noted the direct connection between brain health and neurological disorders. He explained that a healthy brain reduces the risk of conditions such as stroke, epilepsy, and dementia. Dr. Dodd-Glover emphasized that mental health is intricately linked to brain health, and addressing mental health issues can significantly improve overall brain function.

Prioritizing Brain Health in Daily Life

Both experts provided practical advice on prioritizing brain health. Prof. Akpalu recommended regular physical activity, such as walking and climbing stairs, which promotes blood flow to the brain. He also advised a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and proteins while minimizing carbohydrates. Additionally, he stressed the importance of good sleep hygiene, suggesting 7-9 hours of sleep per night. Dr. Dodd-Glover echoed these sentiments and added the importance of maintaining social connections and healthy relationships for optimal brain health.

Impact of Lifestyle Choices on Brain Function

The neurologists discussed how lifestyle choices, including diet and physical activity, directly impact brain function and development. Prof. Akpalu expressed concern about children who spend excessive time on technology, potentially hindering their brain development. He suggested encouraging children to engage in physical and intellectual activities to support healthy brain growth.

Dispelling Common Misconceptions

Dr. Dodd-Glover addressed common misconceptions about brain health, such as the belief that aging inevitably leads to cognitive decline. She emphasized that engaging in brain-stimulating activities, such as learning new skills, can maintain and even improve brain function with age.

Messages for Viewers

On World Brain Day, Prof. Akpalu urged viewers to prioritize their brain health by maintaining a healthy lifestyle, staying socially connected, and regularly checking their blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels. He also noted that good sleep hygiene and a balanced diet play crucial roles in maintaining brain health. Dr. Dodd-Glover encouraged viewers to remain proactive about their brain health.

World Brain Day reminds us that brain health matters, and with the right knowledge and lifestyle choices, we can all contribute to a healthier future.

Watch full interview here:

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The Deputy Ashanti Regional Director of Health, in charge of Clinicals, Dr. Rita Larsen-Reindorf, says that with less than six years until the 2030 target year, Ghana is far from achieving the Universal Health Coverage agenda.

According to her, with all the efforts in providing essential services, the country made only 21 percent improvement in the target areas from 24 percent in the year 2000 to 48 percent in 2021, thereby making attainment of the 2030 target highly doubtful. 

Dr. Larsen-Reindorf has therefore appealed for collaboration among all the stakeholders, including religious organisations, to help in the national effort. 

She made the call in Kumasi at the inauguration of the Medical Mission of the ‘Global Crusade with Kumuyi-Ghana’. 

A team of 180 medical experts from Ghana, Nigeria, Germany, Bulgaria, the United Kingdom, and the United States will provide free medical care to members of the public. 

At the inauguration of the Medical Mission, it was announced that members of the public will receive general care, dental, eye, mental health support, ENT, and surgical services at three designated Centres in Kumasi and Brofoyedru. 

The Deputy Ashanti Regional Director of Health in charge of Clinicals, Dr. Rita Larsen-Reindorf, in commending the church through the ‘Global Crusade with Kumuyi-Ghana’ for the initiative, expressed doubt about Ghana’s ability to attain Universal Health Coverage by the 2030 target.

The National Overseer of the Deeper Life Christian Ministry in Ghana, Pastor Edward Duodu, explained that the medical outreach is part of the church’s intervention to show love and care to individuals and communities.

The International Coordinator of the Medical Mission, Dr. Jeremiah Ayeni, noted that the outreach is a means to disciple the world while taking care of the health needs of the people.

The four-day free medical outreach began on Sunday with a session with pregnant women, nursing mothers, and babies up to six months. 

Health professionals, including midwives and senior nursing officers, took the participants through exclusive breastfeeding, proper feeding of infants, nutrition, and dental care for children and mothers. 

Some of them were also fed and later given gifts of baby care. 

There was also a medical team to cater for the health needs of some of the participants who had traveled from far places, such as the Western North region. 

The Medical Mission is a key component of the ‘Global Crusade with Kumuyi-Ghana’, which is a world-wide evangelism to be anchored in the Ashanti regional capital of Kumasi and broadcast through various technologies to over 52 nations globally.

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Several days after confirming the outbreak of dengue fever in Ghana, the number of affected individuals has surged significantly, from an initial 9 reported cases to a staggering 36 cases.

The confirmation came shortly after atypical cases of clinical malaria, which did not respond to antimalarial treatment, were detected, prompting a deeper investigation. The cases of Dengue Fever were conclusively identified at the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research (NMIMR), following the analysis of samples from patients exhibiting acute febrile illnesses.

The outbreak of Dengue Fever has now spread beyond its origin in the Eastern Region to include newly reported cases in Ghana’s Central region within the past three days.

In response, the Ghana Health Service, in collaboration with its partners including USAID, World Health Organization (WHO), and UNICEF, has issued a health alert and is calling for intensified efforts in social and behavioral change initiatives.

Public Awareness and Preventive Measures

The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has additionally emphasized the need for heightened public awareness campaigns on Dengue Fever, focusing on key preventive measures:

• Avoiding mosquito bites by using mosquito nets and wearing protective clothing.
• Eliminating mosquito breeding sites by eliminating standing water where mosquitoes lay eggs and using mosquito repellent.
• Implementing proper waste management practices around homes and schools to reduce potential mosquito breeding grounds.

The GHS urges the public to maintain vigilance and strictly adhere to these preventive measures. Early reporting of symptoms is also encouraged to effectively control the spread of Dengue Fever and safeguard lives.

Farmers are required to also wear protective clothing.

Dengue Fever – What is it

Dengue fever is a viral infection transmitted to humans by mosquitoes, predominantly in tropical and subtropical regions.

Many individuals infected with dengue virus exhibit no symptoms, but those who do typically experience high fever, headache, muscle and joint pains, nausea, and a characteristic skin rash. Most people recover within 1 to 2 weeks. However, in some cases, particularly severe ones, dengue can lead to complications requiring hospitalization.

Severe dengue can be life-threatening, underscoring the importance of preventive measures. Avoiding mosquito bites, especially during the daytime when dengue-carrying mosquitoes are most active, is crucial in reducing the risk of infection.

Currently, there is no specific antiviral treatment for dengue. Management primarily focuses on alleviating symptoms with pain relievers and ensuring adequate hydration. Early detection and supportive care are vital in managing severe cases and preventing fatalities.

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In a bid to effectively improve HIV services in Ghana, especially to newborns, UNICEF Ghana in partnership with the Ghana Health Service, has rolled out the Point of Care Test project.

It is technology which has significantly reduced the turnaround time on HIV test results of newborns and babies. The initiative, aside from reducing anxiety among mothers, has also seen the timely treatment of infected babies, and consequently enhancing their chances of survival.

”It’s innovative because it allows babies who are infected to be treated as soon as possible. The sooner you get you are treated, the highest are your chances of surviving”

UNICEF Ghana Chief of Health & Nutrition Emmanuel Dewiz, disclosed this during a media Café session held for some selected journalists in mainstream media, in Accra.

Mr. Dewiz, said the Point of Care Test project, focusses on newborns because it is an area which has been neglected for years. He said the service which can be accessed in health facilities nationwide, is to ensure no child is left behind.

He said that under its Safety Net Programme, adolescent girls who hitherto became school dropouts as a result of teenage pregnancy have the opportunity to return to school after child birth. This he said has helped the girls get back their lives and prevented them from being marginalized.

He said to expand the programme, UNICEF requires more funding to cover more areas because benefits of the project are enormous.

“This is something that we are doing in some districts of the country and we would like to do more. So if we secure more funding, we will do more because, that has a lot of impact on mothers, on children and on future adults”

He hinted Ghana will next year commence HPV vaccination. To this end it will be embarking on a sensitization drive, for awareness creation.

UNICEF Communication Specialist, Evelyn Baddoo, encouraged the journalists to support UNICEF in the advocacy to change the narrative of children, who are the most vulnerable in society.

She said through compelling storytelling, journalists must create a platform to sensitize the public on issues of children. She was hopeful through strategic advocacy UNICEF could raise the needed resources to reach more people.

UNICEF Ghana Country Representative, Osama Makkawi Khogali, in a brief remark called for an all hands on deck approach to change the narrative about stories in particular Ghana and Africa.

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The 120-bed state-of-the-art facilities constructed by NMS Infrastructure Limited come with maternity and pediatric wards, consulting and treatment rooms, theatres and recovery rooms, public health department, accident and emergency, laundry, mortuary among others. 

They are equipped with modern equipment and specialised departments designed to provide comprehensive primary healthcare and a wide range of services for people in the two districts and beyond.    

President Akufo-Addo reaffirmed his government’s unwavering commitment to completing critical projects regardless of which administration initiated them to enhance the quality of life for Ghanaians through superior healthcare services.

The completion of the Fomena Hospital, he said, was a testimony to his government’s dedication to providing state-of-the-art health facilities in line with current healthcare standards across the nation.

He said the two projects formed part of a broader agenda to complete numerous healthcare projects, saying that upcoming hospitals set for commissioning included five hospitals in Elubo, Mpohor, Bogoso, Nsuaem, and Wassa Akropong as well as a public health facility at Akontonbra and the Ashanti Regional Hospital at Sewua. 

“By the end of 2024, we will also complete several significant projects including the urology and nephrology Centre of excellence at the Korlebu Teaching Hospital,” the President stated. 

He also spoke about the construction of 11 district hospitals and one polyclinic in the Ashanti, Eastern, Greater Accra and Ahafo Regions and various treatment and holding centres being under construction.  

“These efforts align with our commitment to achieving Universal Health Coverage, guarantee improved and more efficient health services for all Ghanaians,” he noted.

According to the President, government’s determination to improving healthcare delivery system in the country is evident in the Agenda 111 initiative which is providing 111 standard 100-bed district hospitals and accommodation for doctors and nurses. 

He assured Ghanaians that the trust placed in his government would not be in vain, adding that, the government had made substantial investments in the health sector to complete as many infrastructural projects as possible for the benefit of all Ghanaians.  

He said the government was committed to expanding primary, secondary and tertiary healthcare facilities nationwide, stressing that the Fomena hospital exemplified responsible use of taxpayers’ money. 

Mr. Bernard Okoe Boye, the Minister for Health, said the two projects experienced some headwinds between 2012 and 2015, but under the leadership of President Akufo-Addo the projects were completed with the provision of the needed resources.  

He enumerated many healthcare projects at various stages of completion across the country which the President had shown commitment to seeing their completion for the benefit of Ghanaians. 

He said under the leadership and directions of the President, all the facilities under the NMS project were at an average of 20 per cent completion by January 2017 when he was sworn-in, but he did not abandon them and worked hard to complete them. 

About 2,000 beds would have been added to health facilities in the Ashanti Region by the time the President hand over in January 2025, according to the Health Minister. 

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SOURCE: GNA

Renowned Clinical Epidemiologist Prof. Fred Binka recently highlighted the concern about the spread of dengue fever to Ghana’s Central Region.

In an interview on 3FM’s Hot edition, he emphasized the inadequacy of the current surveillance system in effectively managing the situation.

The emergence of dengue fever in the Central Region marks a critical point, underscoring the necessity for a more robust surveillance approach. Prof. Binka stressed the importance of effectively assessing mosquito density in the affected area to disrupt their transmission patterns.

Initially mistaken for fatigue and malaria, the outbreak in the Eastern Region has evolved into a significant health crisis. The Aedes mosquito-borne disease has already afflicted eleven individuals across five districts, with an additional 57 samples awaiting confirmation at the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research.

Survivors of the disease in the Eastern Region recount the arduous path to recovery, enduring extensive treatment at Brenase Polyclinic to combat the debilitating effects of dengue fever.

The escalating presence of Aedes mosquitoes poses a severe threat to farmers in the affected agricultural districts, potentially jeopardizing long-term food security.

As the outbreak spreads to other regions, Prof. Binka advocates proactive measures by health authorities to stay ahead of the disease.

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This announcement comes after unusual cases of clinical malaria were detected, which did not respond to antimalarial treatment, prompting further investigation.

Dr. Patrick Kuma-Aboagye, Director-General of the GHS, requested in the alert all Regional Directors of Health Service and Chief Executives of Teaching Hospitals to disseminate the alert to all health workers within their regions and facilities, including mission and private establishments. This step aims to enhance surveillance and ensure all suspected malaria cases undergo laboratory confirmation.

The detected Dengue Fever cases were confirmed at the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research (NMIMR) after samples were sent from patients exhibiting acute febrile illnesses. Following this, a team comprising entomologists and epidemiologists has joined the regional team to conduct a detailed outbreak investigation.

Surveillance and case definitions

Health workers have been advised to be vigilant and adhere to the surveillance case definitions for Dengue Fever. A suspected case is defined as any person with an acute febrile illness of 2-7 days duration accompanied by two or more of the following symptoms: headache, retro-orbital pain, myalgia, arthralgia, rash, haemorrhagic manifestations, or leukopenia.

A confirmed case requires laboratory confirmation through positive IgM antibody, a four-fold or greater rise in IgG antibody titres, positive PCR, or viral isolation.

For severe forms of the disease, the definitions include:

– Dengue Haemorrhagic Fever: A probable or confirmed case of dengue with bleeding tendencies, evidenced by positive tourniquet test, petechiae, ecchymoses or purpura, mucosal bleeding, gastrointestinal bleeding, or bleeding from injection sites.

Dengue Shock Syndrome: A probable or confirmed case with evidence of circulatory failure, manifested by a rapid and weak pulse, narrow pulse pressure (≤ 20 mm Hg), hypotension for age, cold and clammy skin, and altered mental status.

Public Awareness and Preventive Measures

The GHS has also called for immediate public awareness campaigns on Dengue Fever. Key preventive measures include:

– Avoiding mosquito bites by using mosquito nets and wearing appropriate clothing.

– Eliminating mosquito breeding sites by removing standing water where mosquitoes can lay eggs.

– Proper waste management around homes to reduce potential mosquito breeding grounds.

The GHS urges the public to remain vigilant and adhere to these preventive measures to curb the spread of Dengue Fever.

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