In a move aimed at bolstering healthcare delivery, Dr. Bernard Okoe-Boye, the Minister of Health, has assured the University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC) of unwavering government support.
During a courtesy visit to the facility, which included the donation of a modern ambulance, Dr. Okoe-Boye underscored the critical role of UGMC as a model health facility in Ghana and beyond.
In his address, Dr. Okoe-Boye praised UGMC as a flagship healthcare institution that exemplifies the benefits of public-private partnerships.
"The University of Ghana Medical Center is one of the flagship, or one of the model health facilities, which is a typical blend of state and private sector involvement," he stated.
"All the books on economics, on transformation of nations will tell you, the best vehicle to use in a state is corporate. State means that government puts in some shares of support, and then some private partners are involved."
Dr. Okoe-Boye elaborated on the advantages of this hybrid model, highlighting how it promotes efficiency and sustainability.
"When you have 100% state-run operations, sometimes decisions are not motivated by efficiency, performance, and margins. However, with private participation, the focus shifts towards efficiency, deliverables, and margins, ensuring that the business can function without making losses," he explained.
"This model is crucial for creating sustainable organizations that can continue to provide high-quality services."
The Minister emphasized the government's inclusive approach to healthcare, treating all facilities, whether public, private, or quasi-public, as integral parts of the health system.
"Any health facility in Ghana, once they engage in activities that make Ghanaians happy, strengthens our healthcare system. This is why we don't distinguish between Ghana Health Services, medical institutions, and quasi-public entities. Every facility, including private ones, represents the face of the Ministry of Health," Dr. Okoe-Boye asserted.
Dr. Okoe-Boye's visit also aimed to increase the visibility and utilization of UGMC. "My task is to see how we can increase your throughput, how more people can come here, so that the world will know of the investments made in this facility. This hospital has been compared to world-class institutions, and we want to ensure that it continues to meet and exceed those standards," he said.
Reflecting on the history of UGMC, Dr. Okoe-Boye acknowledged the efforts of past administrations in its establishment.
"This project was conceived under President Mills and John Dramani Mahama when he became President and has continued to receive support. When I was in parliament, I was part of the MPs who approved loans to support such projects. This facility's operational success is a testament to what concerted efforts and investment in healthcare can achieve," he noted.
Dr. Okoe-Boye also highlighted the caliber of health professionals in Ghana, describing them as world-class.
"We are proving to ourselves that Ghana has what it takes to have a world-class facility. Luckily for this country, we also have health workers who are world-class," he said.
Dr. Okoe-Boye reiterated the government's commitment to supporting UGMC and ensuring it continues to provide exceptional healthcare services.
"We are going to do our best to support you, so that you can be the best, not only in West Africa but beyond," he assured.
The Minister's visit and donation of an ambulance mark a significant step in strengthening the partnership between UGMC and the Ministry of Health, ensuring the continued delivery of world-class healthcare services to the people of Ghana.
On his part, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC), Dr. Kwame Anim-Boamah, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the much-needed addition to their fleet.
Dr. Anim-Boamah emphasized the critical timing of the donation, noting the current state of the centre's ambulances.
"As we all know, the Minister is visiting us to have some discussions and, most importantly, to donate an ambulance to the centre to enhance our operations. We believe that this ambulance is coming at a very, very, very timely moment because the ambulances we have are a little old and not so well equipped," he stated.
He further elaborated on the challenges faced by UGMC in maintaining an adequate and modern ambulance fleet.
"The ambulances we have been using are not as advanced as this new one, and this donation alleviates a significant burden. We have been concerned about raising the substantial funds required to procure such an advanced ambulance. This donation is, therefore, very much welcome and we thank you immensely," Dr. Anim-Boamah added.
The new ambulance is expected to significantly enhance UGMC's emergency response capabilities, ensuring better service delivery and patient care.
Board Chair of the University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC), Dr. Anarfi Asamoah underscored the importance of the visit and highlighted the invaluable support UGMC has received from the Ministry of Health.
Dr. Baah noted the significance of the Minister's inaugural visit since his formal approval.
"We are really touched by this visit. This is perhaps, as the CEO said, the minister's first visit since he was formally approved. So we are really touched by that gesture," he remarked, acknowledging the Minister's commitment to engaging with healthcare institutions.
Dr. Baah also praised the Ministry for its unwavering support throughout UGMC's journey.
"I want to take this opportunity to really pay tribute to the Ministry of Health. The Ministry of Health was very instrumental in the construction of the centre," he stated.
He highlighted the Ministry's pivotal role in providing essential resources and expertise during UGMC's operationalization phase.
"At the time when the centre had no system, we were using the ministry's financial system, procurement systems, and even equipment systems to do our work," he added, emphasizing the collaborative efforts that have been pivotal to UGMC's success.
Furthermore, Dr. Baah emphasized the interconnectedness between UGMC and the Ministry of Health, advocating for a holistic approach to healthcare administration.
"UGMC is part of the ministry... There's a tendency sometimes to see the ministry as the few people part of the ministry that want to help. All the facilities are under the ministry," he explained.
He urged stakeholders to recognize UGMC as an integral part of the broader healthcare system, deserving of equal support and recognition.
Dr. Baah expressed optimism about the visit's potential to strengthen the partnership between UGMC and the Ministry of Health.
Former Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC), Dr. Darius Osei expressed gratitude for the recognition he received from the Health Minister.
"I must say that I am touched by the fact that I was recognized by the Honorable Minister of Health System,"
Reflecting on his initial days at UGMC, he highlighted the challenges faced in acquiring ambulances.
"When I first took on the role, one of my immediate tasks was addressing the shortage of ambulances. I approached my minister for assistance, not fully aware of the objective at that time. Despite the uncertainty, immediate distributions were made, which was a significant relief."
Dr. Osei candidly shared his learning curve and the importance of leveraging relationships to enhance the hospital's capabilities.
"There are a lot of things I realized along the way. Leveraging connections and taking advantage of opportunities were crucial in ensuring that our patients received the care they deserved," he noted.
He also acknowledged the logistical challenges that often come with such high-profile visits.
"Unfortunately, this morning, there were some scheduling issues. We were supposed to be here at 1 PM, but had to visit another location. I apologize for any inconvenience caused,"
Dr. Osei said, highlighting the busy schedules of healthcare administrators and the inevitable adjustments that arise.
Dr. Osei's reflections underscore the ongoing efforts to improve UGMC's infrastructure and services.
His remarks were a testament to the dedication and resilience of healthcare professionals in navigating and overcoming obstacles.
The visit by Dr. Okoe-Boye and the recognition of Dr. Osei's contributions signify a commitment to continuity and progress in Ghana's healthcare system.
As UGMC continues to evolve, the foundation laid by leaders like Dr. Osei remains integral to its mission of delivering high-quality medical care to the community.
Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith
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