By: Jones Anlimah
The Volta Region has made significant strides in healthcare delivery, moving from a moderately performing region to a highly performing one, according to the Regional Director of Health Services, Dr. Chrysantus Kubio. Speaking at the 2024 annual health sector performance review, he credited the progress to strengthened primary healthcare systems and collaborative efforts among stakeholders.
The region’s improved performance was highlighted in a presentation by the Bono Regional Reviewing Team, which revealed that the Volta Region scored an overall 4.2, an increase from last year’s 3.8. This improvement reflects ongoing efforts to enhance primary healthcare service delivery and accessibility to quality healthcare across the region.
The 2024 annual health sector performance review, held under the theme “Strengthening the Primary Healthcare System for Improved Access to Quality Healthcare Service Delivery: The Role of Networks of Practice,” brought together key stakeholders, including health professionals, policymakers, and development partners, to assess progress and strategize on further improvements.
The Volta Regional Director of Health Services, Dr. Chrysantus Kubio, emphasized the importance of sustaining these gains. “As we deliberate, let us explore ways to strengthen our primary healthcare structures further to ensure equitable access and improve health outcomes for all,” he stated. He acknowledged the commitment of health workers and stakeholders in achieving this milestone.
The Volta Regional Minister, Mr. James Gunu, commended health workers for their efforts in delivering quality healthcare. “Strengthening primary healthcare is crucial, and the government remains committed to improving infrastructure, leveraging technology, and enhancing service delivery to ensure accessible and effective healthcare for all,” he assured.
Adding to the discussion, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS), Professor Lydia Aziato, called for policies that motivate healthcare workers at the community level. “Mostly, we forget our brothers and sisters who are at the primary healthcare level. Regional Minister, I am saying that the intentional policy should include how we can motivate staff who sacrifice to go to the community level to work,” she urged. She further emphasized the need for investment in training specialized healthcare professionals to prevent the overconcentration of expertise at the regional and national levels.
Professor Anthony Adofo Ofosu, a former Deputy Director-General of the Ghana Health Service, underscored the need for a comprehensive approach to healthcare system development. “We should move beyond this small, small approach. Let’s start somewhere, get the networks functioning, and then provide the needed resources. The health system cannot be fixed in parts. You need to strengthen all levels—hospitals, health centers, and CHPS compounds—to ensure sustainability,” he noted.
The review meeting underscored the critical role of networks of practice in strengthening primary healthcare and improving service delivery. Participants called for sustained government investment in healthcare infrastructure, workforce development, and service delivery to ensure equitable access to quality healthcare across the Volta Region.
