The migration of skilled health professionals is placing increasing pressure on health systems across the West African Region.
President John Dramani Mahama, who bemoaned this during his address at the 66th Annual Conference of the West African College of Surgeons in Accra, said the response to this act must be deliberate and practical.
He stated that the response should include improving working conditions, strengthening career pathways, enhancing professional recognition, and creating environments in which health workers can thrive and choose to serve.
President Mahama also said structured avenues must be developed to engage the expertise of professionals in the diaspora.
President Mahama emphasized that timely access to surgical care is essential, as trauma, obstetric emergencies, cancers, congenital conditions, and acute surgical illnesses require prompt and safe interventions.
He noted that when access is delayed, preventable disability rises and avoidable deaths occur, and families endure needless suffering.
President Mahama also announced that the government will pay an outstanding bill for volunteer surgeons who used their professional skills to help Ghanaians across the country.
He said he has discussed with the Minister of Health and directed that the bill be submitted to the minister.
“We will take up that cost and still express appreciation to you for what you have done,” President Mahama said.
He stated that Ghana is implementing the Ghana Mahama Care Trust Fund as a key pillar of the national response to non-communicable diseases.
President Mahama said the fund supports treatment for priority conditions, including cancers, chronic kidney disease, and cardiovascular diseases.
President Mahama was named Grand Patron of the conference and admitted as an honorary fellow of the West African College of Surgeons.
Richard Aniagyei, ISD
