Was the Okere District Hospital Handed Over Too Late?

After years of anticipation, the Ministry of Health has finally transferred the newly built Okere District Hospital in Ghana’s Eastern Region to the Ghana Health Service (GHS). But should it have taken this long?

The handover ceremony, held at the hospital premises, was attended by government officials, traditional leaders, and local stakeholders. While the event marked a significant step in healthcare development, some might wonder—will the facility be properly maintained, or will it suffer the fate of other neglected public projects?

Prof. Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, Director-General of GHS, received the keys from Hon. Awatey and passed them to the Regional Director. He introduced the hospital’s management team and reminded them of their responsibility.

“I urge you to prioritize the well-being of women and children. Give your best service to the people,” he said. But will the hospital truly live up to this promise, or will it become another struggling institution with inadequate resources?

Mr. Ben Nkansah, Director of Infrastructure at the Ministry of Health, advised traditional leaders to finalize documentation to secure the facility. He also urged hospital managers to maintain the building and equipment. Given Ghana’s history of poorly maintained public facilities, will these words lead to real action, or will this hospital fall into disrepair within a few years?

The newly completed 40-bed hospital includes an Outpatient Department (OPD), maternity and delivery wards, and reproductive health services. But is a 40-bed facility enough to serve the growing population?

Hon. Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, the Regional Minister, thanked all those involved in the project. She encouraged the community to take ownership of the facility.

“These facilities belong to you; let’s preserve them for future generations,” she said. Yet, how often have we heard similar promises, only to see hospitals deteriorate due to mismanagement?

The event was chaired by Osuodumgya Otutu Ababio V, Chief of Adukrom and Akuapim Nifahene, who made an emotional appeal to healthcare workers.

“Healthcare is not just about medicine; it’s about understanding and compassion,” he emphasized. But with the challenges in Ghana’s healthcare sector—understaffing, low salaries, and lack of equipment—will healthcare workers be able to deliver the quality care patients deserve?

Background: A Long Road to Completion

In August 2020, former Health Minister Kwaku Agyeman-Manu broke ground for the construction of the Okere District Hospital. It was part of the government’s ambitious plan to build 88 district hospitals. But why did it take nearly five years to complete?

The 40-bed hospital, built by Vamed Engineering, includes essential units such as a surgical theater, antenatal care, OPD, and male, female, and pediatric wards. However, many might question whether the government is doing enough to ensure these hospitals are fully equipped and staffed.

At the sod-cutting event in Adukrom, the former Minister had assured the community that the government was working toward universal health coverage.

“This project is part of a €71.5 million initiative covering 12 similar hospitals, with an €8.6 million insurance guarantee from a Czech company,” he had stated.

But now that the hospital is ready, will it receive the necessary resources to function effectively, or will it remain a structure with limited operational capacity? Only time will tell.

This are questions from netizens.