Medical practitioners in Volta Region embark on an outreach programme

Bomigo, April 25, GNA - Seven medical practitioners and three paramedics on Thursday screened and treated about 450 people of Bomigo community in Keta District of various ailments. They administered analgesics, de-wormers, hypertension drugs, mineral and vitamin supplements and anti-malaria drugs estimated at about 5,000 Ghana cedis free of charge. Those who needed further attention were referred to nearby health facilities.

The outreach programme dubbed "Operation Recover Forgotten Territories" was undertaken by Volta Region branch of Ghana Medical Association (GMA) as part of their 50th anniversary celebrations. Dr John Eleeza, Ho Metropolitan Director of Health Service told Ghana News Agency that most of the children in the community were malnourished and had skin rashes.

Dr Kwabena Opoku-Adusei, Vice President of GMA said the programme was in line with its decision for branches to initiate programmes to bring health care delivery closer to the people. Dr Gafatsi Normanyo, Volta Regional Chairman of GMA who led the team said selection of Bomigo was to bring the "nation's conscience to bear on forgotten territories," with regard to the health care needs of children and adolescents.

He regretted that potentials in the youth in these areas were being wasted and they lived in poverty and ignorance. Dr Winfred Ofosu, Kpando District Director of Health Service said strong family life should be included in educating children to refrain from defecating in open places and to dispose garbage at designated places.

Togbe Akude II, Chief of Bomigo appealed for the establishment of a clinic in the area for improved health care delivery. Mr Kofi Ahiabor, Keta Municipal Chief Executive announced that a health centre at Anyanui about four kilometres from Bomigo would be inaugurated soon to cater for their health needs.