Health Minister swears in new boards to drive key reforms in health sector

Minister for Health, Mr. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has inaugurated new boards for four key health institutions in Ghana. This action reaffirms the government's commitment to universal health coverage and necessary reforms.

The newly sworn-in boards are for the following agencies:
- Ghana College of Nurses and Midwives
- Medical and Dental Council
- National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA)
- Pharmacy Council

These agencies will address important health issues. They include rising non-communicable diseases, workforce migration, and the demand for quality healthcare.

During the ceremony, Mr. Akandoh emphasized their role in advancing the Ghana Medical Trust Fund initiative, known as MahamaCares. He highlighted the need to align their goals with changing healthcare needs.

The Minister urged the Medical and Dental Council to maintain high ethical standards in healthcare delivery across the country. He also asked the NHIA to review its benefit packages. The focus should be on financing chronic disease management and preventative care.

Regarding the Pharmacy Council, Mr. Akandoh stressed stronger pharmaceutical regulation and better drug distribution systems. He called for efforts to combat opioid misuse through collaboration with the private sector.

For the Ghana College of Nurses and Midwives, he tasked the new board with leading workforce reforms. They should enhance training programs and address brain drain among health professionals through development strategies.

Mr. Akandoh encouraged board members to work together and focus on Ghanaians' needs. “Whatever decisions we take must serve the common Ghanaian,” he stated.