The President’s representative at the Ministry of Health, Dr. Bernard Okoe-Boye has outlined the government’s efforts to enhance healthcare delivery and future plans during a working visit to the Tema General Hospital.
In his remarks, Dr. Okoe-Boye emphasized the government’s commitment to improving healthcare services for all citizens. He highlighted the prioritization of modern information and communication technology to respond to public health threats and manage patient data effectively.
Under his leadership, the Ministry of Health has collaborated with development partners to implement the Surveillance Outbreak Response Management and Analysis System (SORMAS) nationwide, significantly improving disease control and outbreak management procedures. Dr. Okoe-Boye noted impressive achievements, with the Ministry achieving 97.5% timeliness and 88.6% completeness for surveillance reports.
He also discussed the implementation of the LightWave Health Information Management System, which has been rolled out to audit hospitals, regional hospitals, and primary-level facilities, enabling access to real-time data for informed healthcare delivery.
Dr. Okoe-Boye emphasized the transformation of healthcare delivery through the integration of modern technology, including eHealth and telemedicine initiatives. He mentioned plans to start a pilot program for telemedicine in collaboration with the Ghana Health Service, allowing patients to consult with doctors remotely.
Acknowledging the Ghana Health Service’s e-learning platform for continuous professional development, Dr. Okoe-Boye commended efforts to make learning accessible to all health professionals.
Regarding achievements during the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Okoe-Boye highlighted Ghana’s efficient management of the crisis and increased vaccination coverage. Notable achievements include a reduction in malaria-related deaths and improved postnatal care coverage.
The government’s commitment to revamp healthcare infrastructure was underscored, with completion and ongoing construction of various health facilities across the country. Projects include the completion of phase two of the University of Ghana Medical Center, the rollout of urology and kidney transplant services, and the professionalization of regional and district hospitals.
Dr. Okoe-Boye concluded by reaffirming the government’s dedication to providing quality, accessible, and affordable healthcare. He emphasized ongoing efforts to address the infrastructure deficit and improve healthcare delivery for all citizens.