The Health Committee of Parliament, under the leadership of Chairman Dr. Mark Kurt Nawaane, embarked on a crucial outreach visit to the Regional Hospitals in the Upper East and Northern East Regions. Apexnewsgh reports The visit, an integral part of their monitoring process, aimed to evaluate the quality and accessibility of health services for communities in these underserved areas. As the team toured various facilities, including different wards, the outpatient department, and diagnostic centers, it quickly became clear that a major hurdle faced by these hospitals is a severe staffing shortage. Dr. Nawaane highlighted the urgent need for government intervention, stating, “Staffing is the number one issue we encountered, and it’s clear that the government needs to take decisive action.” The committee’s findings painted a stark picture of healthcare in Bolgatanga, a municipality that, despite its designation, was described by Dr. Nawaane as a remote area in dire need of support. “It should be classified among the deprived areas requiring government assistance,” he emphasized. The chairman pointed out the critical need for specialists, underscoring the fact that the entire Upper East Region only has one radiographer and one gynecologist when experts estimate that at least six of each are necessary. “Our women are suffering,” he stated, urging that financial clearance for healthcare personnel be expedited, particularly for those willing to serve in remote areas like Bolgatanga. He recognized the efforts of Bolgatanga hospital management’s in maintaining cleanliness and operational standards but raised concerns about the hospital’s Internal Generated Fund (IGF) being disappointingly low. “Management must work to close all leakages by engaging stakeholders effectively,” he advised. The parliamentarians divided themselves into three teams, each assigned to different hospitals for comprehensive assessments. Team One includes visits to Bolgatanga Regional Hospital, Nalerigu Regional Hospital, Tamale Teaching Hospital, Tamale Regional Hospital, and Wa Regional Hospital. Team Two will evaluate Damongo Regional Hospital, Techiman Regional Hospital, Sunyani Regional Hospital, and Goaso Regional Hospital. Meanwhile, Team Three will tour Kumasi Regional Hospital, Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, and several other key facilities. Throughout their visits, the MPs intend to closely engage with healthcare professionals and stakeholders, as well as to assess infrastructure and service delivery quality. This initiative reflects the ongoing commitment of the Health Committee to address the pressing challenges in the public health sector and to ensure that quality healthcare becomes accessible to all citizens, no matter where they live. Dr. Saanwie Aiden, the dedicated Medical Director, welcomed members of a visiting committee. He expressed his satisfaction with their visit, recognizing its significance in shedding light on the challenges that the hospital faced daily. As the discussions unfolded, Dr. Aiden shared the hospital’s story—a narrative marked by progress but shadowed by pressing needs. “We have received numerous facilities to enhance our services,” he said, his tone a mix of pride and concern. “However, we face a significant challenge: we need qualified staff to operate these facilities effectively for the benefit of our community.” “One glaring example is our lack of a biomedical engineer. Without this crucial role filled, we’re left in a tough spot when equipment breaks down. We have no choice but to rely on engineers from Accra or Kumasi.” His brow furrowed slightly as he continued, expressing frustration over the situation. “Unfortunately, there have been times when these hired engineers have caused more harm than good, leaving us with faulty equipment instead of the solutions we sought.” The visit from the committee, Dr. Aiden hoped, would not only highlight the hospital’s needs but also serve as a catalyst for much-needed support. With determination in his voice, he stressed the urgency of addressing staffing gaps to ensure that the Bolgatanga Regional Hospital could serve the community effectively and efficiently. It was a call to action, echoing the collective hope that things could improve—for the hospital, its staff, and most importantly, the people they served. The members of the health committee who visited the Bolgatanga Regional Hospital are as follows: Dr. Mark Kurt Nawaane – Chairman Patrick Boakye-Yiadom – Deputy Ranking Member Anthony Mwikara Sumah – Member Kingsley Agyemang – Member of Parliament for Aboakwa South. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/ Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen