By: Sarah Baafi
The Parliamentary Health Committee has commended the Eastern Regional Hospital in Koforidua for its outstanding performance and effective management during a nationwide healthcare assessment tour.
Dr. Arko Akoto-Ampaw, the hospital’s medical director, highlighted key achievements made over recent years, many realized without direct government funding.
The committee was impressed by the hospital’s prudent use of Internally Generated Funds (IGF) to repair faulty equipment, purchase medical supplies, and pay salaries for non-mechanized staff.
Dr. Thomas Anabah, a member of the Health Committee, emphasized the importance of accountability and innovation at the facility level, saying, “When hospitals take ownership of their development and manage their resources wisely, they can significantly improve service delivery even in the face of limited external support.” He also stressed the need to find resources to equip hospitals properly, noting, “It is unacceptable that we don’t have equipment in the hospital to take care of patients”.
Despite being a century-old facility, the Koforidua Regional Hospital has taken proactive steps to address its challenges. The committee’s visit is part of a broader parliamentary effort to evaluate healthcare delivery nationwide and identify areas for strategic support and policy intervention.
The committee engaged hospital management and staff in discussions about operational challenges, staff welfare, and patient care.
Dr. Anabah noted that such interactions are “crucial for developing realistic, ground-up solutions that can inform national health policy reforms”.
The Health Committee’s tour will conclude with a comprehensive report to Parliament, including recommendations aimed at strengthening healthcare infrastructure, improving resource allocation, and enhancing the quality of care across Ghana. As the tour progresses to the Volta and Greater Accra regions, stakeholders hope the Koforidua Regional Hospital’s example will inspire other facilities to adopt innovative and sustainable practices.
