In a recent working visit to the Lekma Hospital in Teshie, the Minister of Health, Dr. Bernard Okoe-Boye, called on Ghanaians to extend their support to hospitals while they are in good health.
Dr. Okoe-Boye emphasized that such support would enable hospitals and their staff to provide better care when citizens fall ill.
During his visit, Dr. Okoe-Boye toured the hospital facilities and engaged with both the staff and patients.
He highlighted the importance of community involvement in health care, stating that the contributions of healthy individuals can significantly enhance the hospital's ability to deliver quality services.
“We have to support our hospitals while we are healthy. Let us ensure that these institutions are well-equipped and they will be prepared to take care of us when we need them the most,” Dr. Okoe-Boye remarked.
He encouraged the public to consider various forms of support, including donations, volunteering, and participating in community health initiatives.
In addition to his call for public support, Dr. Okoe-Boye addressed the concerns of student nurses at Lekma Hospital.
He assured them that the government is committed to improving their training conditions and announced plans for the construction of new hostels for nursing students.
This initiative aims to provide better accommodation and a conducive learning environment for the nurses-in-training, who are crucial to the future of healthcare in Ghana.
Dr. Okoe-Boye’s visit underscores the government's commitment to enhancing healthcare infrastructure and ensuring that both medical staff and patients have the resources they need.
The Minister’s statements and the proposed developments are part of broader efforts to improve the healthcare system in Ghana, making it more responsive and capable of meeting the needs of its citizens.
The Minister's call to action serves as a reminder of the collective responsibility in maintaining a robust healthcare system.
As Ghanaians heed this call, it is hoped that the collaborative efforts will lead to a stronger, more resilient health sector, ready to serve the community effectively.
On his part, Greater Accra Regional Minister, Titus Glover praised Dr. Akua Gyimah-Asante for her outstanding contributions to the hospital.
He emphasized the importance of having dedicated individuals in every community who serve as catalysts for positive change.
The Greater Accra Regional Minister highlighted Dr. Okoe-Boye's commitment, noting his regular visits to the hospital to consult and provide care to patients was worth emulating.
"We must use this bus to facilitate the work that you are doing here in this hospital," Glover urged, underscoring the critical need for such contributions to bolster government efforts.
The Regional Minister stressed the significance of collective support in healthcare, pointing out that government alone cannot address all challenges.
The visit by Dr. Okoe-Boye and the commendations from Minister Glover highlight ongoing efforts to improve healthcare infrastructure and services in the Greater Accra Region.
Taking her turn, Medical Superintendent at Lekma Hospital, Dr. Akua Gyimah-Asante said “The significance of this donation cannot be overstated. It symbolizes more than just a vehicle. It represents a beacon of hope and solidarity in our collective pursuit of better healthcare for all.”
Reflecting on the progress of Lekma Hospital, Dr. Gyimah-Asante highlighted the facility’s evolution into a center of excellence.
She praised the tireless efforts of healthcare professionals who have expanded services to include specialized clinics in urology and advanced surgical procedures such as laparoscopic, endoscopic surgeries, and cataract surgery.
These advancements, many facilitated by Dr. Okoe-Boye, have significantly improved access to quality healthcare and empowered the community to lead healthier lives.
“Our commitment to innovation and excellence has widened the spectrum of services offered to our community,” Dr. Gyimah-Asante noted.
“We take immense pride in upholding the highest standards of patient care, ensuring that every patient receives the care and attention they deserve.”
However, Dr. Gyimah-Asante also acknowledged the challenges faced by the hospital, including a lack of vital equipment and limited space, which hinder its continued growth and success.
Despite these obstacles, she expressed unwavering commitment to overcoming them and realizing a vision of a healthier, more prosperous community.
The donation of the bus, she emphasized, comes at a critical time. “Currently, we have only two vehicles that are less than 10 years old, and the donation of this bus could not have come at a better time. It will enhance our capacity to serve the needs of our community more effectively.”
Dr. Gyimah-Asante called upon the Health Minister to use his esteemed position to facilitate the expansion of Lekma Hospital.
She highlighted the potential support from the Chinese government to embark on ambitious initiatives that would improve infrastructure, acquire vital equipment, and ultimately enhance healthcare delivery.
“Together, we can overcome any obstacles and achieve greatness beyond measure,” she concluded, urging a collective effort towards a brighter, healthier future for the community.
Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith
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