Effia-Nkwanta Regional Hospital still operational

The Effia-Nkwanta Regional Hospital, is still operating despite the current strike by medical personnel and continues to record low Out Patients cases.

A visit by the GNA to the facility showed a few patients seeking medical care at the Out Patients Department.

The once vibrant referral facility now looks deserted with patients, the key stakeholders, seemingly unable to bring their health concerns.

A walk around the facility, by the GNA, showed that the hitherto brisk activities seen daily by caregivers, food sellers and visitors to the facility, was absent.

Dr Sarah Baffoe, Head of the Obstetrics and Gynecology unit said: “People are not coming perhaps because they have heard that doctors are on strike but we are still running a 24-hour emergency service”.

She said though she is on her annual leave, she visits the hospital daily to assist in taking care of patients especially pregnant women and those due for delivery.

Dr Baffoe said patients, who visit the facility with minor health issues, such as headaches are as usual treated and accordingly discharged.

She said most doctors are on standby to respond promptly to emergency situations.

The negotiations between the Ghana Medical Association and government is currently at a stalemate over conditions of service.