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Africa set to advance cancer care as UHAS launches postgraduate certificate programme

Africa set to advance cancer care as UHAS launches postgraduate certificate programme

Africa set to advance cancer care as UHAS launches postgraduate certificate programme

The University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS), in collaboration with its partners, has launched the Oncology Nurse Leadership Programme (ONLEP) – a postgraduate initiative aimed at enhancing cancer care across the African continent. The launch affirms the University’s commitment to promoting healthcare in Africa and contributing to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 3.

The programme was developed in partnership with the City Cancer Challenge Foundation (C/Can), the International Society of Nurses in Cancer Care (ISNCC), and Amgen, a pharmaceutical company. It aims to address the lack of investment in healthcare professionals providing cancer care – particularly oncology nurses – not only in C/Can cities but across Africa.

Prof. Lydia Aziato, Vice-Chancellor of UHAS and Project Lead, emphasised that the programme was driven by the need for strong leadership in cancer care and the goal of maintaining and enhancing the quality of cancer treatment on the continent.

“UHAS is poised to lead this partnership and aims to become a hub for leadership training for nurses, midwives, and other health professionals in Africa and beyond. The Oncology Nurse Leadership Programme is a catalyst for this dream,” Prof. Aziato stated.

Africa set to advance cancer care as UHAS launches postgraduate certificate programme


Investing in Nursing Leadership as a Driver of Sustainable Change

Martha L. Ordóñez, Global Programme Manager of C/Can, explained that ONLEP forms part of the foundation’s efforts to build the capacity of local healthcare professionals to lead change in the sector. She said the programme applies a transformational learning approach to equip nurses with leadership skills, knowledge, and confidence in the dynamic field of oncology.

“At City Cancer Challenge, we believe in strong local leadership. ONLEP is a testament to our commitment to investing in those at the heart of health systems: nurses. By empowering oncology nurses with the tools to lead, advocate, and innovate, we are not only strengthening cancer care in C/Can cities but across the African continent,” she said.

Africa set to advance cancer care as UHAS launches postgraduate certificate programme


Corporate Commitment to Health Education

Sean Lybrand, Executive Director of Access to Healthcare at Amgen Inc., expressed excitement about the partnership, which aims to support oncology nurses with training to promote universal health coverage.

“To support oncology nurses across sub-Saharan Africa not only improves their skills and competencies; it also leads to better healthcare delivery and, in the medium term, better health outcomes. We are incredibly pleased to partner with UHAS, C/Can, and ISNCC on this key initiative,” he noted.

Africa set to advance cancer care as UHAS launches postgraduate certificate programme

About the Oncology Nurse Leadership Programme (ONLEP)

The Oncology Nurse Leadership Programme seeks to empower oncology nurses as leaders to make a meaningful impact on cancer care delivery and patient outcomes. It aims to:

  • Foster leadership development skills
  • Promote clinical excellence
  • Support professional growth
  • Facilitate networking and collaboration
  • Encourage research and evidence-based practice
  • Nurture advocacy skills

ONLEP is a five-year programme, with the first year focused on designing the leadership curriculum and training the first cohort of 30 students, including 13 from C/Can cities. Subsequent years will train cohorts of 60 students each, with the fifth year focusing on a final group of 30.

The six-month certificate programme combines face-to-face and online learning, beginning with in-person sessions in the first and last weeks, while the interim period will be conducted online. Trainees must complete a leadership project within six months. Graduates will receive a Postgraduate Certificate in Oncology Nurse Leadership, awarded by UHAS and recognised across Africa and internationally.

Africa set to advance cancer care as UHAS launches postgraduate certificate programme

International Support

Prof. Winnie So, President of the ISNCC, stated that ONLEP aligns with the organisation’s mission to maximise the influence of nursing to reduce the global burden of cancer.

“ONLEP in Africa is a strategic step that builds the capacity of nurses to lead, advocate, and implement solutions that directly impact cancer prevention, treatment, survivorship, and palliative care outcomes,” he said.

Africa set to advance cancer care as UHAS launches postgraduate certificate programme

ONLEP’s First Cohort

The first cohort consists of 30 students from seven African countries: Ghana, Nigeria, Malawi, Rwanda, South Africa, Kenya, and Gambia. They will study modules such as:

  • Foundations of Oncology Nurse Leadership
  • Health Services Organisation
  • Financial Management and Quality Assurance
  • Psycho-oncology
  • Stress and Change Management
  • Networking and Collaboration
  • Research and Evidence-Based Practice
  • Policy and Advocacy

“This programme is more than just a learning experience. It’s a bridge connecting nurses from diverse backgrounds, empowering us to share our stories and learn from each other,” said Ejiaku Tochukwu Chiamaka, Cohort 1 Lead from Abuja, Nigeria.


Africa set to advance cancer care as UHAS launches postgraduate certificate programme

Government Endorsement

Volta Regional Minister, James Gunu, described the initiative as a complement to government efforts to improve cancer diagnosis and care, pledging his personal support for its success.

“ONLEP aligns precisely with Ghana’s 2025 budget priorities: building human capital and strengthening healthcare systems. It also supports the national cancer control plan and WHO’s broader objectives for improved screening, diagnosis, and treatment,” he said.

He added that while the Volta Region had benefited from e-health expansion, with 193 facilities now digitally connected, a gap remained in oncology nursing capacity, which ONLEP addresses.

KNUST Optometry 8th White Coat Ceremony tackles refractive error setbacks to improve access

KNUST Optometry 8th White Coat Ceremony tackles refractive error setbacks to improve access

KNUST Optometry 8th White Coat Ceremony tackles refractive error setbacks to improve access

Refractive error and vision care in Ghana is marred by low access, unaffordability, limited qualified personnel and weak government oversight.

The 8th White Coat Ceremony at KNUST’s Department of Optometry and Visual Sciences focused discussion on the urgent need to address refractive error setbacks in especially underserved Ghanaian communities.

The event marking students’ transition from pre-clinical studies to hands-on clinical training sought to overcome challenges to boost spectacle coverage and vision care access in low-income areas.

KNUST Optometry 8th White Coat Ceremony tackles refractive error setbacks to improve access

Refractive errors are common eye conditions that make vision blurry, needing a pair of glasses, contacts, or vision correction surgery to restore vision.

However, resources and structural setbacks limit treatments and access levels.

Head of the KNUST Department of Optometry and Visual Sciences, Professor Mohammed Kabir, disclosed that the burden of uncorrected refractive error tends to be greater in typically underserved areas.

“Despite the strides in vision care, several challenges of spectacle coverage in low- and middle-income countries exist. The burden of uncorrected refractive error tends to be greater in typically underserved areas. The concentration of services in urban areas, and a general lack of public awareness. The obvious challenges coupled with issues of clinical regulation need to be resolved to improve access and treatments,” he said.

KNUST Optometry 8th White Coat Ceremony tackles refractive error setbacks to improve access

The joint celebration of the 2025 Refractive Error Day and the 8th White Coat Ceremony by the Department of Optometry and Visual Science and the Ghana Optometric Association (GOA) sparked discussion around improving refractive error treatment.

Held under the theme “Bridging the Gap: Dispelling Refractive Error Myths to Improve Access,” the event highlighted national efforts to raise awareness, debunk misconceptions, and expand access to eye care services across Ghana.

The White Coat Ceremony is a traditional rite of passage in health-related fields, signifying the transition of students from pre-clinical studies to hands-on clinical training.

By training new up-to standard optometrists, the department aims to boost spectacle coverage and improve vision care access in low-income areas.

Head of the KNUST Department of Optometry and Visual Sciences, Professor Mohammed Kabir, admonished the graduates to uphold innovation, and ethics to improve vision care.

“The far-reaching consequences of uncorrected vision, particularly for children, impacts negatively on well-being and academic performance. We have a role in preparing students to handle real-world cases and interact with patients.

“This clinical phase of training equips the students with the skills to handle real-world optometric cases and begin interacting with patients in clinical settings, guided by well-defined professional standards and responsibilities,” he said.

The Optometry Class of 2027 were formally inducted into the clinical phase of their training with the symbolic donning of white coats.

KNUST Optometry 8th White Coat Ceremony tackles refractive error setbacks to improve access

The graduation ceremony also forms part of the Ghana Optometric Association’s Fractal Carousel Fusion.

President of the Ghana Optometric Association, Prof. Samuel Bert Boadi-Kusi, assuring of GOA’s commitment to address vision barriers, advocated for improved remuneration and working conditions for optometrists.

“There is a critical need for affordable eyeglasses and we call on the government to make them accessible to all citizens, particularly those in vulnerable communities. It is crucial for achieving the World Health Organization’s (WHO) target of improving effective refractive error coverage by 40 per cent by 2030.

KNUST Optometry 8th White Coat Ceremony tackles refractive error setbacks to improve access

“GOA remains committed through initiatives designed to improve access and quality of care. We call for improved remuneration and working conditions for optometrists, particularly those serving in rural areas, to enhance the reach of eye care services,” he said.

The ceremony brought together students, faculty, eye care professionals, and stakeholders in the health sector.

Chief Optometrist of Trust Hospital Accra, Dr. Naa Kowah, disclosed that visual impairment in the children demographic is prevalent due to uncorrected refractive errors.

KNUST Optometry 8th White Coat Ceremony tackles refractive error setbacks to improve access

“Over 200,000 Ghanaian children struggle with uncorrected refractive errors, making it the leading cause of visual impairment in this demographic. It is also important to dispel common misconceptions about eye health and the need to shift the perception of glasses as merely a luxury to recognizing them as essential tools for a better quality of life,” she said.

Chairman of the Education Committee of GOA, Professor Emmanuel Abu, admonished the graduating class to be innovative, and uphold the profession’s ethics.

“Take your journey from the classroom to the clinic, be transformed into trusted health professionals responsible for their patients’ vision. Your journey was marked by the values which must be embraced, and honored. Commit to unwavering adherence to the highest standards of ethics, professionalism, and empathy,” he said

National Executives for the Paediatric Society of Ghana inducted into office

National Executives for the Paediatric Society of Ghana inducted into office

National Executives for the Paediatric Society of Ghana inducted into office

National Executives of the Paediatric Society of Ghana have been inducted into office at a short ceremony to lead the affairs of the association in the next two years.

The seven elected executives are expected to work and undertake initiatives aimed at achieving the mission and vision of the society.

They include the President, Dr. Hilda Mantebea Boye; Vice President, Dr. Emmanuel Oppong; General Secretary, Dr. Gabrielle Obeng-Koranteng; and Assistant Secretary, Dr. Haruna Mahama.

The rest were Financial Secretary, Dr (Med) Afua Osew-Gyamfi; Female Executive, Dr (Med) Genevieve Insaidoo, and Male Executive, Dr (Med) Richard Letsa.

Speaking after the induction, Dr. Hilda Mantebea Boye expressed gratitude to the membership for entrusting the leadership of the society under their care for the next two years.

She assured of leading an all-inclusive administration that would build on the success of her predecessors, with a strong collaboration between stakeholders and all members.

She also stressed to “work hard to push the Child Health Agenda and to promote the health and well-being of all children in Ghana.”

The Paediatric Society of Ghana is a child health advocacy group committed to the welfare and interests of children in Ghana.

The Society comprises paediatricians and other doctors, nurses, paramedics, teachers, and members of the general public who share in its vision.

Its activities include organising outreaches to schools, educating communities on issues affecting child health, and engaging stakeholders to promote the health and well-being of children in Ghana.

As a professional body of paediatricians and child health advocates, it remains committed to supporting national efforts in immunisation, maternal and newborn health, nutrition, and health education.

KATH doctor dies over lack of laboratory for treating ‘heart attack’

KATH doctor dies over lack of laboratory for treating ‘heart attack’

KATH doctor dies over lack of laboratory for treating ‘heart attack’

The Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital is seeking the urgent prioritization and construction of a catheterisation laboratory after losing one of its critical medical staff who suffered a heart attack. 
 
Dr. Kwame Adu Ofori, an Emergency Physician at the Hospital, is reported to have died over the weekend when his colleague doctors attempted saving him but lacked the crucial laboratory to treat an obstruction in one of the blood vessels pumping blood to his heart. 
 
The absence of the laboratory at Ghana’s second largest teaching hospital has sparked grave concerns over the poor medical infrastructure in public health facilities in the country as Ghana boasts of only one of such facilities located in Accra.
 
It was a gloomy weekend at Ghana’s second largest teaching hospital, the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, after health professionals watched helplessly to seek urgent medical attention for a colleague who suffered a myocardial infarction, otherwise known as a heart attack.   
 
A specialized area to perform a minimally invasive procedure to diagnose and treat an obstructed blood vessel to his heart was missing at the Ashanti region’s foremost hospital.

KATH doctor dies over lack of laboratory for treating ‘heart attack’

Despite immediate response to stabilize him before being transported to the national capital for proper care, he died on the way. 
 
CEO of KATH, Dr. Paa Kwesi Baidoo recounts moments of the unfortunate demise. 
 
“After the doctors stabilized him, we arranged for a military airlift to transport him immediately to Accra for him to be properly attended to. We arranged a team of doctors and special care nurses for him. They were in touch when they got to Accra but he unfortunately died on their way to the hospital,” he recounted.
 
Dr. Kwame Adu Ofori before his passing was an Emergency Physician at the hospital, who contributed actively to providing emergency medical care to critically ill patients, but sadly couldn’t save himself.
 
Despite calls for successive governments to construct a Cath Lab for the facility, it has fallen on deaf ears. 
 
“When a delegation from Bank of Ghana visited us, I made a plea to them to help us construct a CATH lab. They’ve asked that we submit a proposal to be sent to the Governor,” he said.

 The similar situation is mirrored in public health facilities across other regions in the country. 
 
A construction of the facility will be the first and foremost in the 67 years of existence of the hospital, serving the Ashanti region and the Northern part of Ghana. 

Technically, doctors perform a cardiac catheterization on patients by inserting a thin, flexible tube called a catheter into a blood vessel, and this is carefully guided to the heart.

It is usually passed through the hand or leg to reach the heart without an open-heart surgery.
 
The unfortunate incident has since ignited concerns amongst workers at the hospital on the inadequate medical infrastructure. 
 
Dr. Baidoo says the hospital needs urgent retooling to improve quality healthcare delivery. 

“The sterilization facility at the hospital is also defunct. We need a comprehensive retooling of the hospital,” he noted.
 
Health professionals at the hospital anticipate an immediate construction and completion of the specialized laboratory to end the numerous avoidable cardiac deaths. 

Meanwhile, the management of the hospital says the Minister of Health has been informed of the incident who has assured of the construction of the facility in not only Kumasi but also in Tamale and another in Accra.

200,000 children in Ghana have uncorrected refractive errors- Dr Agyemfra

200,000 children in Ghana have uncorrected refractive errors- Dr Agyemfra

200,000 children in Ghana have uncorrected refractive errors- Dr Agyemfra

More than 200,000 children in Ghana suffer from uncorrected refractive errors, a leading cause of visual impairment, with one in four schoolchildren requiring vision correction.

A Chief Optometrist at the Trust Hospital in Accra, Dr Naa Kowah Agyemfra, said that although refractive error, which causes visual impairment, accounts for 50 per cent of the cases, less than 30 per cent of those with refractive errors have access to proper correction due to cost, access issues or myths.

“Obviously, this is not just a clinical problem but a public health crisis and a cultural communication gap,” she stressed.

Dr Agyemfra made the remarks while delivering an address at the second Refractive Error Day Symposium & 8th White Coat Ceremony at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST)

it was on the theme: “Bridging the gap: Dispelling refractive error myths to improve access”.

The white coat ceremony marked the transition of 100 level 400 Doctor of Optometry students from preclinical studies to clinical practice, where they were robed in white coats, widely recognised as a symbol of medical professionals.

They took the optometry oath, promising to practise the art and science of optometry diligently and conscientiously, uphold and promote the highest standards, ethics and ideals of the profession, as well as safeguard patients’ information.

Disproving myths about refractive errors, she explained that it was false to believe spectacles weaken the eyes.

Instead, she emphasised they help the eyes focus better, stressing “without them, you strain your eyes more and may even develop headaches”.

Additionally, she said sugar does not directly cause refractive errors.

However, it can affect the vision of people with diabetes, but glasses or spectacles are for refraction and not for sugar levels.

She also added, “children, teens and adults can all have refractive errors.”

Dr Agyemfra, also the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Eye Express, Accra, emphasised that wearing glasses was not a sign of weakness but a means of empowerment, noting, “refractive errors are not curses but are correctable conditions”.

Recruitment

The President of the Ghana Optometry Association (GOA), Professor Samuel Bert Boadi-Kusi, stated that no optometrists have been employed in the public sector for nearly five years, despite training institutions producing approximately 200 optometrists annually.

200,000 children in Ghana have uncorrected refractive errors- Dr Agyemfra

Instead, he said that what was always done was replacing those in active service who retired, resigned or died.

Therefore, he called on the government to recruit optometrists to work actively, especially in underserved areas.

Furthermore, he urged the Ministry of Health and its agencies to urgently review the long-overdue approval of a two-year horsemanship programme for Doctors of Optometry, with suitable remuneration.

Prof. Boadi-Kusi advocated refractive services to be integrated into primary healthcare and included in the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS). He emphasised that refractive error was a health issue and a barrier to education, opportunities and dignity.

Challenges myths

A Professor at the School of Optometry and Visual Science, University of Cape Coast (UCC), Professor Emmanuel Kwesi Abu, who chaired the event, said that globally, refractive errors remained underdiagnosed, undertreated and misunderstood.

Despite the availability of simple, affordable interventions such as spectacles, he expressed concern that millions still suffer because of misinformation, cultural beliefs and limited access to services.

He told the students that their field was rapidly evolving with advances in diagnostic imaging, ocular therapeutics, contact lens innovations, and public health strategies.

Therefore, he encouraged them to stay curious and keep up with new trends.

Impact

In a welcome address, the Head of Department of Optometry and Visual Science at KNUST, Professor Mohammed Abdul-Kabir, stated that refractive error, if left uncorrected, can significantly and adversely affect patients’ well-being and may also lead to poor academic performance among children.

He urged the students stepping out to begin the clinical phase of their training to work harder and stay up-to-date with modern eye health and optometry care techniques.

Princess Duncan receives honorary doctorate from Prowess University, USA

Princess Duncan receives honorary doctorate from Prowess University, USA

Princess Duncan

Princess Duncan, a fast-rising force in Ghana’s business and humanitarian space, has been honoured with an honorary doctorate by Prowess University, Delaware, USA.

At just her early age, Princess Duncan is already commanding attention on the African leadership stage, not only as Deputy Chief Executive of COA Research and Manufacturing Limited Company but also as a passionate advocate for peace across borders.

The prestigious recognition was conferred on her during the 2025 Africa’s Under 40 CEOs Awards and Summit held on Saturday, June 28, in Johannesburg, South Africa.

Princess Duncan receives honorary doctorate from Prowess University, USA

Aside from being acknowledged with an honorary doctorate, she was recognised as an Icon of African Economic Advancement 2025 at the Africa’s Under 40 CEOs awards and summit.

Her new title, “Doctor”, adds to an already powerful profile, placing her among the youngest female CEOs in Ghana to receive such international acclaim.

The honour is a proud extension of a legacy deeply rooted in service and vision.

Princess Duncan is the daughter of renowned Ghanaian scientist and philanthropist Professor Samuel Ato Duncan, the Executive President of COA Research and Manufacturing and traditional Nkosuohemaa of Frante Sekyeredumasi in the Ashanti Region.

Like her father, she has consistently demonstrated a firm commitment to using her platform to build peace, support community health, and inspire the next generation.

Princess Duncan receives honorary doctorate from Prowess University, USA

Following the conferral of the doctorate degree, she spoke exclusively to Ghanaian journalist Beyoncé Diamond Kpogli and expressed immense gratitude to the summit organisers and the awarding institution.

“I am deeply honoured by this recognition. It means the world to me,” she said. “To be acknowledged not just for what I’ve achieved, but for the values I stand for – it’s humbling.”

She added that the award is not an end but rather a spark for more ambitious work ahead. “This is only a stepping stone,” she noted. “Greater things are coming. We are born to serve humanity, and we will continue to do so until peace reigns again.”

Princess Duncan receives honorary doctorate from Prowess University, USA

Dr. Princess Duncan also used the platform to advocate for peace, stressing that without unity and stability, true development remains impossible.

“Without peace, we cannot grow or develop as individuals or a nation. That’s why it’s crucial to end all conflicts and embrace peace. We owe that to ourselves, to our future, and to the next generation,” she emphasised.

The event was well attended by young, influential CEOs from across Africa. The event celebrated innovation, leadership, and impact, spotlighting individuals shaping the continent’s future.

Princess Duncan has long been admired for her blend of grace, discipline, and tenacity. Whether in boardroom decisions or community development projects, she brings a rare sense of clarity and compassion to her work.

More HIV patients not on treatment – New report reveals

More HIV patients not on treatment – New report reveals

More HIV patients not on treatment - New report reveals

More than half of the people living with HIV/AIDS have not sought the life-saving antiretroviral therapy treatment, the Ghana AIDS Commission (GAC) has revealed.

In its 2024 national and sub-national HIV estimates and projections, the commission reports that 334,721 people living with HIV, accounting for 47 per cent of that population, are currently on antiretroviral therapy treatment, with 52.6 per cent without treatment.

The commission has described the situation as “alarming”, warning of its potential to derail national efforts to control the epidemic.

The current situation, it said, had left the lives of the entire population, including non-HIV patients, at risk.

The Ghana AIDS Commission made this known at a press briefing in Accra last Thursday, where government officials, health experts and development partners convened to assess the country’s HIV control efforts.

The Director of Research, Monitoring and Evaluation at the commission, Isaiah Doe Kwao, said the figures fell short of the global 95-95-95 targets set by the United Nations programme for HIV and AIDS, UNAIDS, for 95 per cent of people living with HIV to know their status, 95 per cent of those diagnosed to be on treatment and 95 per cent of those on treatment to achieve viral suppression.

Statistics

Breaking down the statistics, Mr Kwao explained that 15,290 new HIV infections were recorded in 2024 alone, and that although 12,614 AIDS-related deaths were recorded, an estimated 12,358 deaths were prevented due to access to treatment.

He said the data underscored the urgent need to expand access to antiretroviral therapy treatment.

Mr Kwao stated that women and children continued to bear a disproportionate burden, with 68.5 per cent (10,303) of new infections occurring in females and 5.4 per cent (1,243) occurring in children under 15.

He remarked that although Ghana boasts that 99.3 per cent of HIV-positive mothers now receive prevention of mother-to-child transmission, more needed to be done to ensure effective follow-up and treatment to reduce the figures.

He added, however, that the records for males were 4,987, while adults aged 15 and older recorded 11,289 out of the 15,290 new cases.

Stigma, other challenges

The Deputy Chief of Staff, Nana Oye Bampoe Addo, said issues such as misinformation, disinformation, stigma, discrimination, individual economic challenges, inadequate lifesaving services and recent funding cuts had contributed to derail progress.

“Regardless, we are determined to ensure sustained domestic financing, including the recent suspension of USAID’s international funding programme; integrate HIV priorities into broader health and development strategies, and adopt innovative, data-driven approaches to enhance service delivery.

No one should be left behind in our HIV response,” she emphasised. 

She also cautioned that every HIV-positive person who was not on treatment was one step closer to advanced illness and AIDS-related death, which she said was unacceptable. She stressed that, especially in present times, there should not be such a wide treatment gap.

As Ghana prepares to host the 2025 International Conference on AIDS and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in Africa (ICASA), the Deputy Chief of Staff called on stakeholders, government institutions, health workers, donors, researchers, community advocates and civil society leaders to reflect deeply on the findings from these estimates and turn them into purposeful action.

Regional statistics

On the regional level, Greater Accra recorded 3,436 new infections, Ashanti Region, 2,997, Eastern Region, 2,019, Central Region, 1,140, Western Region, 1,120, Bono Region recorded 875, while Volta Region recorded 809 new infections.

Bono East recorded 649, Western North recorded 478, Ahafo Region recorded 350, Upper East Region recorded 345, Northern Region recorded 318, Upper West recorded 292, Oti Region recorded 222, Savannah Region recorded 143, while the North East Region recorded 97.

Medical facilities in Ahafo hail NHIA for prompt payment of claims

Medical facilities in Ahafo hail NHIA for prompt payment of claims

Medical facilities in Ahafo hail NHIA for prompt payment of claims

Medical Directors of health facilities in the Ahafo Region have lauded the leadership of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) for the prompt payment of claims in 2025.

According to them, the NHIA’s timely payment of claims significantly improves the day-to-day administration of both public and private health institutions in the country.

Dr. Tsibo-Takyi, the Medical Director for the St. John of God Catholic Hospital in Duayaw-Nkwanta, noted that while the NHIS claims are not entirely sufficient to sustain the facilities, their timely payment is highly appreciated.

These observations were made by the Medical Directors on Monday at Hwediem in the Ahafo Region, during a stakeholder engagement meeting between the NHIA, credentialed facilities, and the Ghana Health Service in the region.

READ ALSO: Parliament approves GH¢10bn for NHIA

The meeting provided a crucial platform for reflection, review, and renewal of collaborative commitment towards delivering quality and accessible healthcare to residents through the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).

Attendees included the Regional Director of Health Services, various District Directors of Health, Medical Superintendents of hospitals, and representatives of mission hospitals in the region.

Dr. James Ankomah, the Medical Director for Goaso Municipal Hospital, urged the NHIA to consider an upward adjustment of the various tariffs under the Scheme in the Ahafo Region, emphasizing that the current amounts received by facilities are woefully inadequate.

In his remarks, the Ahafo Acting Regional Director for the NHIA, George Mawuli, confirmed that health facilities have received payments up to May, with only a few institutions having exceptional cases.

He expressed optimism that the prompt payment of claims to facilities should translate into quality service provision for persons seeking healthcare in the Ahafo Region.

However, Mr. Mawuli also pointed out that some facilities continue to engage in illegal charges or “copayments” to clients, which he stated undermines the credibility of the NHIS and fosters mistrust among members.

He indicated that this practice is not only unethical but also a breach of their contractual agreements, asserting that the NHIA cannot allow such actions to persist.

The Acting Regional Director therefore called on all providers to immediately halt any form of unauthorized charges and adhere strictly to the NHIS tariffs and policies.

“In our efforts to increase transparency and client education, we are introducing the ‘Pulpit System’ where NHIS staff will be stationed at various credentialed facilities daily to educate clients on their rights, responsibilities, and benefits under the Scheme,” he stated.

Mr. George Mawuli noted that this initiative will also serve as a feedback mechanism, ensuring real-time resolution of issues at the facility level, and urged “maximum cooperation to make this a success.”

The Acting Regional Director emphasized that, as part of their operational calendar, the NHIA is entering a new cycle of credentialing and contract renewals. “We urge all providers to ensure their documentation is up to date and submitted promptly,” Mr. George Mawuli stated.

He stressed that the NHIA is committed to offering a smooth and transparent process and expects the same level of professionalism and urgency from all facilities.

He reiterated that the success of the NHIS in the region is a shared responsibility, adding, “Let’s work together in mutual respect and accountability to build a system that our clients can trust and rely on.”

HASAG signs maiden Collective Agreement with government

HASAG signs maiden Collective Agreement with government

HASAG signs maiden Collective Agreement with government

After months of stalled negotiations and rising tensions, the Health Accounting Staff Association of Ghana (HASAG) has successfully concluded and signed its Collective Agreement with the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC), representing the government.

The two-year agreement, which takes effect from August 1, 2025, outlines comprehensive benefits and allowances for members of HASAG, a key milestone that will serve as a morale booster for the association’s workforce.

It brings closure to a period marked by uncertainty and agitation among HASAG members.

Signed on Thursday at the FWSC in Accra, the collective agreement includes provisions for a range of allowances such as duty, posting, protective clothing, vehicle maintenance, occupational health, accommodation, medical subsidy, call-in, and overtime allowances, among others.

These packages are expected to significantly improve the working conditions of health accounting staff across the country.

In addition to the agreed allowances, HASAG members shall enjoy other benefits which are not specifically spelt out in the agreement but which are enjoyed by members in their respective facilities and agencies in line with section 105(4) of the Labour Act 2003, Act 651

Dr. George Smith-Graham, Chief Executive Officer of the FWSC, signed for the employer represented by the Ministry of Labour, Jobs and Employment; the Ministry of Finance; and the Ministry of Health; while Emmanuel Dennis Kofi Amoah, President of HASAG, signed for the association.

Dr. Smith-Graham commended the leadership of HASAG for its cooperation and commitment to constructive dialogue throughout the negotiation process.

He was optimistic that the implementation of the agreement would enhance both performance and productivity among the members of the association.

Acknowledging that all the demands of the association could not be met, he said, “It’s our expectation that the general economy will improve so that it reflects in the improved conditions of service for workers.”

For his part, Mr. Amoah expressed gratitude for the eventual consensus and underscored the importance of effective implementation of the agreement.

“This agreement is a major victory for our members. We are optimistic that the employer will honour the terms fully, and we remain committed to working collaboratively with the FWSC to resolve any issues that may arise during implementation,” he said.

He, however, raised concerns about disparities in market premiums for similar category of workers, and called on the Commission to consider addressing the disparities to ensure fairness.

Mrs Lizzy-Ann Kwagbedzi, deputy CEO of Gamey and Gamey Group, consultants for the association, for her part, noted that “even though we didn’t get all we wanted, we are pleased with how far we have come, and look forward to future negotiations.

She urged the implementing agencies, including the ministries of health and finance, to ensure a smooth implementation phase.

With the agreement now in place, HASAG members can look forward to improved incentives and better working conditions, reinforcing the crucial role they play in Ghana’s health administration system.