The Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has firmly rejected allegations that newly deployed medical officers are being punished by their postings to rural and underserved districts. Instead, he insists the exercise is a crucial step to ensure equitable access to healthcare nationwide.
Addressing journalists in Parliament, Mr. Akandoh clarified that the deployment strategy is focused on prioritising communities with the greatest need, particularly in the Upper East and Upper West regions, where some health facilities have gone months without a single doctor present.
“This is not punishment; it is national service,” the Minister stated. “Doctors must be posted where they are needed most. This is how we save lives and strengthen healthcare access for all Ghanaians.”
He disclosed that newly posted medical officers assigned to the two northern regions have been given a one-week deadline to report to their duty stations or formally communicate any inability to do so. No exceptions, he added, will be granted outside the established process.
Mr. Akandoh appealed to chiefs, Members of Parliament, district assemblies, and other local stakeholders to actively welcome and support the doctors in their new communities. “When they feel welcomed and supported, they stay longer and serve better,” he noted.
The Minister further assured that the government remains committed to providing incentive packages to boost morale, especially for those serving in deprived or hard-to-reach areas. These incentives are part of wider efforts to make rural postings more attractive and sustainable. “Incentives are not handouts; they are tools to strengthen service. Doctors serving in hard-to-reach areas deserve support, and the government is listening,” he said.
Expressing confidence in the commitment of the newly deployed officers, Mr. Akandoh described the assignments as a vital component of national duty. “Ghana is counting on you. Serve where you are needed most,” he urged.
Source: Apexnewsgh.com
