NGOs to assist patients to seek redress

Dormaa-Ahenkro (B/A), June 2, GNA - Two non-governmental organisations in Dormaa Ahenkro are collaborating to advocate the establishment of complaint desks at all health facilities in the two Dormaa districts.

In pursuance of this, Alliance for Reproductive Health Rights and Dormaa Traditional Healers and Birth Attendants have organised a stakeholders' forum for representatives from some communities as well as health facilities at Dormaa-Ahenkro. Participants discussed the Ghana Health Service Code of Ethics and Patients Charter and also took a cursory look at Patients' Rights and Responsibilities as prescribed by the service. Launching the advocacy Madam Aba Oppong, middle zone coordinator for Alliance for Reproductive Health Rights, said the demand for the establishment of the complaint units was in line with basic rules and regulations designed by the Ghana Health Service for enhanced health care delivery.

"The complaints unit will improve the quality of health care and promote patient-health provider relationship thus promoting and guaranteeing optimal health care." Madam Oppong deplored the unprofessional manner in which complaints from both patients and service providers were handled. She said the two NGOs would pursue the advocacy to ensure that patients were given appropriate quarters to seek redress on issues baffling their minds.

Mr. Charles Kwakye Siaw, acting Dormaa Municipal Health Director, commended the NGOs for complementing efforts to bridge the gap between patients and health service providers.