Minister lauds health workers

Ms Sherry Ayittey, Minister of Health, has lauded health professionals for their hard work especially those serving at places where not all people would accept postings to.

Speaking at the maiden National Health Awards, ceremony in Accra, she said it is pathetic that health workers carry out their assignments under the most trying conditions, yet they do get the appreciation they deserve.

The awards which recognised the best practices at the institutional and agency levels, formed part of the activities to commemorate the 10th Anniversary of the National Health Insurance Authority.

In all 130 health institutions both private and government facility were awarded prizes. This include the best three CHPS facilities from each of the 10 regions, best two district facilities, best two district health administrators, best two hospitals, best two child health centres and best two private hospitals from each of the 10 regions.

Koforidua Regional hospital was adjudged the best regional hospital while Tamale hospital was also considered as the best teaching hospital.

Ms Ayittey stated that the acknowledgment of best practice at the institutional and agency level could provide the impetus for improving performance in the health sector.

She noted that in Ghana national award are held for teachers and farmers with expensive prizes, however in the health sector individual awards are given at the institutional levels and rarely at the national level.

Ms Ayittey said her sector ministry would initiate a national award scheme for the health sector which would be sustained and improved upon.

She said the scheme would provide award for every aspect of healthcare which would include institutions and individuals.

Ms Ayittey said governments as part of its strategy to improve and maintain very high standards in the healthcare delivery intends to motivate health workers in order for them give off their best.

“Occasions like this do not only show how we care about the level of our health facilities especially in these times of harsh economic realities, but it shows that as management we are conscious of the need to monitor performance even at the community level.

“This is essential if we are to maintain that level of quality expected from us as managers,” she added.