Mr. Saeed Ibrahim, the head of Imaging at Bolgatanga Regional Hospital, stands as a solitary figure in a sea of necessity. Apexnewsgh reports
With over 25 years dedicated to his role, he has become a steadfast pillar in a department grappling with a critical shortage of staff. “Our major challenge now is staffing,” he laments, highlighting the stark reality that he is currently the only Radiographer employed by the Ghana Health Service across the entire region.
As he reflects on his two and a half decade journey, Mr. Saeed acknowledges the impact of this staffing shortfall. “For years, I’ve had to rely on casual workers to fill the gaps,” he shares, his voice tinged with the weight of responsibility. Excitingly, the department has recently received new imaging machines that hold the promise of improved healthcare services, yet without adequate personnel to operate them, their potential remains untapped.
When questioned about why radiographers seem to leave or not stay in the region, Mr. Saeed responds thoughtfully. “Over the past ten years, we’ve had a few posted here, but many have chosen to return elsewhere,” he explains. His insight reveals a community of dedicated professionals who, despite their desire to contribute, are often overwhelmed by the challenges they face. “We know each other well,” he continues. “The conditions aren’t always what they should be, and without the proper support, it’s difficult to thrive.”
This conversation took place during a pivotal site visit by a Health Committee delegation, organized to assess conditions across various hospitals in the region. Dr. Mark Kurt Nawaane, the committee chairman, along with other members, was there to witness firsthand the struggles and triumphs of healthcare facilities including the Bolgatanga Regional Hospital.
As Dr. Saanwie Aiden, the Medical Director of the hospital, welcomed the committee, he expressed his gratitude for their presence. “This visit sheds light on the daily challenges we face,” he stated, blending pride in recent advancements with a poignant acknowledgment of persistent needs. Among these needs is the critical absence of a biomedical engineer, a position that has left the hospital vulnerable. “Whenever equipment malfunctions, we find ourselves reaching out to engineers from Accra or Kumasi, which often complicates matters further,” he confessed, reflecting on the frustration that arises from relying on external solutions.
The visit was more than mere observation; it was an opportunity for genuine engagement. Dr. Aiden and Mr. Saeed shared their hopes that the committee’s attention would catalyze the necessary support to fill staffing gaps and promote sustainable healthcare practices. They voiced a collective aspiration for improvement, not just for the hospital but for the communities they serve.
Among the committee members present were notable figures such as Patrick Boakye-Yiadom, Anthony Mwikara Sumah, and Kingsley Agyemang, the Member of Parliament for Aboakwa South. Together, they listened intently, aiming to pave the way for a healthier future for the Upper East region, rallying forces to ensure that healthcare, especially in Bolgatanga, can flourish in the face of adversity.
Source: Apexnewsgh.com
