By: Iddrissu A. Jara

The Honorable Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, Minister for Health, has delivered three (3) anesthetic machines to the University of Ghana Medical School (UGMC) and eight (8) anesthetic machines to Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, as part of a total of 50 anesthetic machines that will be distributed across health facilities nationwide.

Accompanied by his Deputy, Dr. Grace Ayensu, the Minister first presented the machines to the management of UGMC, urging them to install the machines promptly for public use.

At Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, Hon. Akandoh elaborated on the significance of the eight anesthetic machines, stating that these presentations are part of President Mahama’s commitment and the government’s broader initiative to enhance health facilities throughout the country.

He emphasized that health facilities can only operate at their full potential when equipped with the appropriate tools.

The Juaboso MP acknowledged the deficiencies in healthcare delivery within public health facilities, asserting that these machines would significantly improve the operational capabilities of these institutions.

He later urged the Hospital Authorities to enhance public perception of the hospital and strive to regain the trust of the community.

“I encourage you to elevate your services. Our clients are the patients, and their feedback is crucial. You must devise a method to address their feedback.

One point I raised at CHASS yesterday, which is currently under discussion, is that you do not need to have a personal connection to treat someone well.

The manner in which patients are treated in hospitals has become a significant topic, so with the utmost respect, let us treat our patients with dignity and respect,” advised Hon. Akandoh.

Earlier, the Minister presented the three machines to Dr. Kwame Anim-Boamah, the Chief Executive Officer of UGMC.

The Minister took this opportunity to urge doctors and nurses to accept postings in any location, as rural areas require their services more than the congested cities.

The Chief Executive of Korle-Bu, Dr. Yakubu Seidu Adam, expressed his gratitude to the Minister and urged him to persuade the government to restore the post-retirement contract that has been terminated, emphasizing that the facilities require the experience and expertise of senior doctors to mentor the younger doctors.