Copyright kessbenonline
Tony Goodman, Head of Health Training Institutions and Spokesperson for the Ministry of Health, has shed light on the challenges facing Ghana's healthcare sector. In an interview with Kojo Preko Dankwah on Kessben FM in Accra, Goodman clarified the role of Zipline, a drone delivery project initially introduced to enhance medical delivery, and expressed concerns about its misuse. Zipline's Expanded Use Goodman revealed that Zipline's operations have gradually expanded into other sectors, including agriculture and education. While the project was meant to transport essential medicines, it has allegedly been used to transport items such as condoms and examination papers. Goodman emphasized the need for closer monitoring to ensure efficiency and value for money. Challenges Facing Healthcare Sector Goodman highlighted several challenges facing Ghana's health sector, including: Unemployment among health graduates: Many health graduates are struggling to find employment. Human resource management issues: The Ministry of Health is working to address HR challenges. Delays in allowance payments: Payments to healthcare workers are often delayed. Agenda 111's Impact Goodman also criticized the implementation of Agenda 111, a government initiative to construct healthcare facilities in 90 districts across Ghana. While the project aims to expand access to quality healthcare, Goodman argued that it has diverted attention and resources from other pressing priorities, such as existing infrastructure and staff welfare. Upgrading Healthcare Infrastructure Despite the challenges, Goodman noted that a holistic assessment of the health sector has led to the upgrading of key health facilities, including Ridge Hospital and Dodowa Hospital. However, he emphasized that significant work remains to be done to strengthen Ghana's healthcare infrastructure. Call to Action Goodman called for renewed focus on sustaining improvements across Ghana's health facilities. He emphasized the need for a more efficient and effective healthcare system that prioritizes the needs of Ghanaians.
