TMHD calls for urgent investment in health research

Health experts in the Tema Metropolitan area have called for urgent investment in research capacity within the health sector, citing critical gaps in skills, infrastructure, and institutional support that hinder evidence-based healthcare delivery.

A recent internal assessment by the Tema Metropolitan Health Directorate (TMHD) revealed that while some health workers engage in research activities, their capacity remains significantly limited.

Florence Efua Koomson, Health Research Officer at TMHD, highlighted the findings during the directorate’s annual health performance review.

The assessment showed that only 33 percent of staff involved in research had received training in data analysis and dissemination, often for periods of two weeks or less. Meanwhile, half of the staff had no formal training in proposal development or data collection.

The report further indicated that health facilities across the metropolis lacked structured in-service training programmes to build research competencies, leaving many practitioners dependent solely on knowledge gained during tertiary education.

In addition to skill gaps, multiple barriers were identified, including limited funding, inadequate tools and resources, heavy workloads, and delays in receiving feedback on externally led studies.

Ms. Koomson stressed that strengthening a research culture is essential for improving patient outcomes. She noted that globally, health systems with active staff engagement in research demonstrate better adherence to clinical guidelines, improved service delivery, higher patient satisfaction, and reduced mortality rates.

She added that research is critical for guiding clinical decision-making, improving referral systems, and ensuring efficient allocation of limited resources. Without strong research integration, quality improvement initiatives often face structural and cultural limitations, reducing their long-term impact.

To address these challenges, TMHD outlined a strategic plan to enhance research capacity. Key proposals include developing a metro-wide research agenda, strengthening collaboration among stakeholders, introducing structured training programmes, and allocating dedicated time and micro-grants to support frontline research.

Ms. Koomson emphasised that fostering a culture of inquiry, where healthcare professionals are supported to investigate clinical challenges, could significantly transform service delivery, particularly in maternal and child health, non-communicable diseases, and mental health.

She concluded that investing in research is ultimately an investment in better healthcare outcomes, noting that evidence-driven systems are more resilient, efficient, and responsive to patient needs.