Improved conditions for health workers a priority - Health Minister

The Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has assured that the government is taking steps to improve the working conditions of medical doctors and other health professionals across the country.

Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen programme, he acknowledged that while challenges persist within the health sector, efforts are ongoing to enhance the welfare and motivation of health workers.

Touching on the government’s Free Primary Health Care initiative, the Minister explained that recruitment under the programme will be voluntary and more flexible.

According to him, nurses and other health workers will not be posted arbitrarily but will instead be allowed to choose where they want to work through an open recruitment portal before going through interviews.

He said this approach is aimed at giving health professionals greater control over their placements and improving job satisfaction.

“We will not assign a nurse to you. Instead, we will open a portal for you to select a healthcare provider and attend an interview for free primary healthcare. Once the portal is open and the time limit is reached, it will be closed. You will also have the opportunity to choose the district you’re interested in. Participation is voluntary; we will not force anyone to take part.

“I acknowledge that we need to implement measures to motivate our healthcare workers. I have already spoken with some District Chief Executives (DCEs) and others about providing suitable accommodation for our health workers. The government is committed to improving conditions for medical doctors, and we will make the best of our current resources. Plans are in progress to enhance the overall well-being of all healthcare workers,” he stated.

Beyond recruitment, the Minister revealed that discussions have already been held with District Chief Executives to address accommodation challenges faced by health workers, which he described as a key factor affecting their motivation.

He further noted that the policy has gone through extensive consultations with stakeholders and has secured significant financial backing.

About GH¢1.2 billion has been earmarked for its implementation, with funding provisions captured under the National Health Insurance Scheme formula currently before Parliament.

The initiative, he added, will also prioritise preventive care, with a range of screening services expected to be rolled out to support early detection of diseases and improve overall health outcomes nationwide.

NA/MA

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