The Regional Health Directorate of Ashanti has introduced a new initiative, ‘Network of Practice,’ to improve healthcare services in the Amansie West District.
This program, launched in the communities of Antoakroam and Essuowin, is designed to foster collaboration among health professionals at the sub-district level to bolster primary healthcare delivery.
The initiative responds to significant challenges in the region, including poor road infrastructure and a shortage of healthcare personnel, which have hindered timely and adequate medical care.
Chief Nana Akyena Kwagyan Nuama V of Essuowin highlighted the issue, noting that the poor condition of roads has led many commercial vehicles to cease operations in the area.
This situation has forced residents to rely on motorbikes for emergency medical transport, often causing delays in receiving care.
Dr Emmanuel Tinkorang, the Ashanti Regional Health Director, explained that the ‘Network of Practice’ aims to unite health professionals from the public and private sectors to work collaboratively.
“This model involves health professionals coming together to share knowledge, address challenges, and work as a cohesive team to enhance healthcare delivery,” Dr. Tinkorang said during the program’s inauguration in Amansie West.
The initiative aligns with Ghana’s goal of achieving Universal Health Coverage by 2030, as outlined in Sustainable Development Goal 3.
By creating a network of healthcare providers, the program seeks to bring quality healthcare services closer to Ghanaians, regardless of their location.
Bernard Badu Bediako, the Amansie West District Director of Health, praised the Essuowin chief for improving local maternal healthcare.
The newly established maternity block in Essuowin has enhanced maternal care, leading to noticeable improvements in healthcare indicators over the past six months.
“This new maternity unit has significantly improved maternal healthcare services compared to the previous year.
Our healthcare indicators have shown a general improvement, thanks to the dedication of health professionals in the district,” Bediako noted.
The ‘Network of Practice’ is expected to address existing gaps in healthcare delivery and ensure that residents of Amansie West receive better and more timely medical care.