By Frances Dorothy Ward
Adansi Hwiremoase (Ash), Feb. 24, GNA – Lack of a modern district hospital is hampering healthcare delivery in the Adansi Asokwa.
The absence of a district hospital forces health officials to refer most cases, which could have been managed in the district to other nearby health facilities.
Mr David Kunta, the District Director of Health Services, stated this at the annual performance review meeting of the directorate at Adansi Hwiremoase.
He said the health performance in the district for 2024 indicated an increase in performance in terms of major indicators in access to quality healthcare delivery.
Available statistics reveal that the district is improving in terms of all major health indicators set by the Ghana Health Service.
“I’m thrilled to report that our district has made significant strides in improving healthcare outcomes over the past year.
“We have seen a notable decrease in maternal mortality rates, with a 100% reduction in deaths related to childbirth.
“This achievement is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our healthcare team, who have worked tirelessly to improve access to quality maternal healthcare services.”
He however, pointed out that, despite the successes chalked, there was still a major challenge, which was the absence of a district hospital.
This, according to him, had occasioned the referral of most cases to nearby hospitals and thereby, hampering the work of healthcare professionals in the district.
Mr Kunta again stressed worry over the surge in teenage pregnancy in the district.
“Unfortunately, our latest data shows a concerning trend of increasing teenage pregnancy in our district.
He said it is worrying to see young lives being impacted by unintended pregnancies, which had far-reaching consequences on the education and overall wellbeing of the affected persons.
“We recognize that teenage pregnancy is often linked to broader societal issues, such as poverty, lack of access to education and healthcare, and inadequate support systems.
“Therefore, we are committed to addressing these underlying factors through comprehensive programs that promote age-appropriate sex education, access to reproductive health services, mentorship, and support for vulnerable youth in collaboration with schools, community organizations, and healthcare providers”
Mr Kunta, however, called on parents and opinion leaders to support the cause of fighting against teenage pregnancies in the district.
By working together, he said, they could empower the young people to make informed choices about their health, relationships, and future.
He said it was crucial that they prioritised the well-being of the children and provide them with the resources they needed to thrive.
GNA