The North East Regional Health Directorate of Ghana Health Service conducted its 2024 performance meeting to review progress toward healthcare goals. Key themes included workforce management and achieving Universal Health Coverage. Stakeholders shared evaluations of achievements and challenges while emphasizing ongoing improvements needed. The commitment from government and international partners was reiterated, highlighting the importance of health infrastructure and community engagement.
The North East Regional Directorate of the Ghana Health Service convened its 2024 annual performance review meeting in Nalerigu, focusing on the theme: “Rational Management of Health Workforce towards Achieving Quality Universal Health Coverage.” The event saw participation from various stakeholders, including religious leaders and partnerships with organizations like UNICEF and KOICA, creating a platform to assess past achievements, challenges, and strategies for the upcoming year.
Dr. Braimah Abubakari Baba, North East Regional Director of the GHS, reported significant advancements in healthcare delivery. He highlighted a slight decline in total Out-Patient Department attendance, which fell from 498,448 in 2023 to 484,444 in 2024. Despite this dip, there was an increase in antenatal care registrations during the first trimester, from 40.6% to 42.3%, with ongoing efforts to further enhance early pregnancy reporting through health education.
However, a reduction in the total number of deliveries was noted, decreasing from 21,086 in 2023 to 20,553 in 2024. Encouragingly, the regional institutional maternal mortality ratio significantly decreased from 51 to 48 per 100,000 live births, surpassing the UHC target of 70 by 2030. Conversely, Dr. Baba raised concerns regarding an uptick in stillbirth and neonatal mortality rates, indicating a percentage rise that needs urgent attention.
Dr. Baba also pointed out challenges faced in healthcare provision, including inadequate health infrastructure. The North East Region, being one of six newly established regions, currently lacks a regional medical store, necessitating reliance on supplies from the Northern Region.
Mr. Ibrahim Tia, the North East Regional Minister, expressed appreciation for the Directorate’s efforts in promoting quality healthcare while affirming government support for UHC initiatives. Additionally, Miss Myeongseon Kim from KOICA underlined the Korean Government’s continued backing for healthcare improvements, showcasing several ongoing projects aimed at strengthening health capacities and community engagement for better health outcomes.
In concluding remarks, Naa Bohagu Mahami Abdulai Sheriga, the Overlord of the Mamprugu Traditional Area, lauded the GHS for its dedication to quality healthcare and underscored the essential role of peace and stability in the region’s health progress.
The 2024 annual performance meeting held by the North East Regional Directorate of the Ghana Health Service highlighted key health achievements and challenges faced by the region. Despite some declines in specific health metrics, the commitment to enhancing quality healthcare and achieving Universal Health Coverage by 2030 remains strong. Partnerships and infrastructure improvements are critical to addressing these challenges and fostering continued progress in the region.
Original Source: gna.org.gh
