On February 12, 2025, Tema General Hospital held a pivotal training session for its new rotation nurses, focused on the Right to Information (RTI) Act. The session, led by Edem Akotey, the hospital’s designated RTI officer, aimed to educate healthcare professionals about the provisions of the RTI Act and its vital role in promoting transparency and accountability within public institutions. The training emphasized how nurses, as key public servants, can contribute to fostering open governance and ensuring that patients and citizens are well-informed about their rights to access public information.
The primary objective of the training was to familiarize the nurses with the RTI Act’s core principles, particularly in the context of healthcare delivery. The session covered the procedures for processing information requests, ensuring that nurses understood their role in facilitating these requests in line with the law. Key aspects of the RTI Act, such as the requirement for public institutions to acknowledge information requests within 14 days and the provision for urgent applications, were thoroughly discussed. This helps public servants recognize the legal obligations they have to meet citizens’ demands for transparency, thus promoting trust in public health institutions.
One of the important takeaways from the session was the inclusion of both written and oral requests for information. While written applications are typically required, oral requests are allowed, particularly for individuals with literacy challenges or disabilities. This ensures that all citizens have equal access to information, regardless of their abilities. Furthermore, the training emphasized the urgency process under the RTI Act, where applicants can request expedited information with a clear justification for why the request is urgent. This flexibility ensures that information is accessible when needed most, empowering citizens to make informed decisions quickly.
By educating nurses on the RTI Act, Tema General Hospital is fostering an environment of transparency and trust between healthcare providers and the public. The hospital’s commitment to upholding the provisions of the RTI Act not only strengthens its service delivery but also contributes to broader community development. As more public institutions, including healthcare facilities, incorporate RTI education into their training programs, the public’s confidence in government services continues to grow, paving the way for more informed, engaged, and empowered communities.
