The Ministry of Health has officially handed over five completed health facilities in the Eastern Region to the Ghana Health Service for immediate operationalization. The ceremony, held today, was chaired by Osuodumgya Otutu Ababio V, Chief of Adukrom and Akuapim Nifahene, who emphasized the importance of empathy and patient-centered care. He called on healthcare professionals to treat their patients with the utmost care and respect, ensuring quality service delivery.

In her remarks, Hon. Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, the Regional Minister for the Eastern Region, expressed her deep gratitude to the Ministry, the chiefs, and the communities for their invaluable contributions to the successful completion of these healthcare facilities. She urged the chiefs and residents to take ownership of the new health centers and to work together to ensure their proper maintenance and sustainability.

During the ceremony, Prof. Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, Director-General of the Ghana Health Service, received the keys to the facilities from the Regional Minister. He subsequently handed them over to the Regional Director of Health Services. Prof. Akoriyea introduced the hospital management team to the Minister and other distinguished guests, urging them to prioritize the provision of quality healthcare, particularly for women and children. He emphasized the importance of community support for healthcare workers, calling for respect and collaboration in ensuring the success of the facilities.

Mr. Ben Nkasnsah, Director of Infrastructure at the Ministry of Health, also played a key role in the handover, presenting the keys to the Regional Minister on behalf of the Minister of Health. He advised the traditional leaders (Nananom) to ensure that all necessary documentation was completed to secure the facilities, while also encouraging hospital management to properly maintain the buildings and equipment.

The symbolic handing-over ceremony took place at the Okere District Hospital, a newly completed 40-bed facility that includes all the essential departments required for the full operation of a district hospital. The handover marks a significant step towards improving healthcare access and services in the region.

Credit: Ghana Health Service