Critical Shortage of Hospital Beds in Ghana Raises Urgent Public Health Concerns

A recent report from the Ghana Harmonized Health Facility sheds light on the disparities in healthcare equipment and intensive care unit (ICU) services across the country’s regional hospitals.

The 2022-2023 document, seen by JoyNews, reveals that while some regional hospitals are well-equipped, others face significant challenges in providing critical care.

According to the report, eight out of the ten regional hospitals have the necessary life support equipment and capabilities to perform essential ICU procedures, ensuring they can save lives during emergencies. However, the situation is quite different in district hospitals and polyclinics, which often lack the vital equipment needed for life support and intensive care.

Medical oxygen sources in hospitals are also a concern. The report highlights that they are not as widely available as required, which can pose serious challenges in emergency situations.

When it comes to medical imaging services, the report indicates that only 27% of facilities offer ultrasound, and a mere 6% provide x-ray services.

High-end diagnostic imaging modalities like mammograms, CT scans, MRIs, and fluoroscopy are available in less than 20% of regional hospitals. Gastrointestinal endoscopy services, specifically colonoscopy, are only available in 12% of regional hospitals.

Regarding inpatient services, the report emphasizes that only 38% of all facilities have dedicated isolation beds. While 74% of regional hospitals, 68% of district hospitals, and 36% of other general hospitals offering inpatient care have dedicated isolation beds, the situation remains far from ideal.

This assessment is particularly pertinent given the current issue of “No Bed Syndrome,” where the scarcity of hospital beds has become a significant public health safety concern.

Urgent attention is required to address these disparities and ensure that all healthcare facilities in Ghana can provide the necessary equipment and services for high-quality patient care.