The Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has officially inaugurated the newly constituted board of major health institutions involving Korle Bu, Komfo Anokye, Tamale, Cape Coast, and Sunyani Teaching Hospitals as well as the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) and the Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Akandoh noted that the appointments are not ceremonial but rather represent a "solemn call to service" that demands integrity, discipline and a results-oriented approach.

He announced that all board members will be required to sign performance contracts outlining key performance indicators with regular progress reports submitted directly to his office.

"We require more than good intentions—we need measurable outcomes and a relentless focus on results," the minister emphasised.

To strengthen hospital operations, Akandoh directed all teaching hospitals to maintain two distinct accounts: one dedicated to infrastructure maintenance and another for servicing essential medical equipment.

“Maintenance is not an optional extra but a foundational obligation," he stressed.

Tackling the growing threat of opioid abuse, the minister called on the FDA to step up its regulatory and enforcement mechanisms.

"We cannot and will not allow this crisis to spiral further," he declared.

In addressing the Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons, Akandoh highlighted the “Mahama Cares” initiative which aims to eliminate financial barriers to treatment for non-communicable diseases.

He urged the college to expand specialist training programs in critical areas such as cancer care, dialysis and organ transplantation to ensure equitable healthcare access across the country.

"These are responsibilities to be honored, not privileges to enjoy," the minister concluded, charging all board members to uphold the highest standards of public service and accountability.