Former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has underscored the need for a fundamental shift in Ghana’s healthcare policies following high-level consultations with the leadership of the Ghana Medical Association (GMA) at the GMA House within the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital.
The meeting formed part of Dr. Bawumia’s ongoing engagement with key stakeholders and identifiable groups across the country aimed at gathering perspectives on national development issues.
During the discussions, GMA President, Professor (Dr.) Ernest Yorke, together with members of the Association’s National Executive Committee, outlined several challenges confronting medical professionals and the healthcare sector. Among the key concerns raised were health workforce retention, inadequate remuneration, the inequitable distribution of doctors across the country, poor infrastructure, emergency preparedness, conditions of service, deprived area allowances, the role of the private sector in healthcare delivery, and the Medical and Dental Council’s requirement for doctors to undertake licensing examinations.
Dr. Bawumia said the extensive deliberations had reinforced his belief that Ghana’s healthcare system requires a new policy direction to address longstanding challenges and improve health outcomes nationwide.
“Some brilliant ideas were put on the table, and I am very encouraged that when implemented they will be transformational for the welfare of doctors and the health sector as a whole,” he stated.
He emphasized that healthcare delivery remains a collective responsibility that requires effective collaboration among policymakers, healthcare professionals, private sector actors, and other stakeholders.
The former Vice President expressed appreciation to the GMA leadership for what he described as their candid contributions and unwavering commitment to the welfare of Ghanaians.
“I extend my sincere gratitude to the President, the executive leadership, and members of the GMA for their invaluable insights, candour, and dedication to the well-being of the Ghanaian people,” he said.
Dr. Bawumia reaffirmed his commitment to supporting efforts aimed at strengthening Ghana’s healthcare system, noting that the ultimate goal is to build a resilient, robust, and patient-centred healthcare system that ensures equitable access to quality healthcare services for all communities across the country.
The engagement is part of a broader series of consultations being undertaken by Dr. Bawumia with various professional bodies and stakeholder groups on issues affecting national development.
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