Asante akim: The Asante Akim Central Municipal Assembly has initiated a comprehensive health screening for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) within the municipality to aid in the early detection and treatment of various health conditions among this vulnerable group.
According to Ghana News Agency, the exercise, financed by the Assembly's Disability Fund, included screenings for cervical cancer, breast cancer, Hepatitis B, as well as checks for blood sugar levels and blood pressure. Beneficiaries who tested negative for Hepatitis B received vaccinations at no cost.
Mr. Eric Owusu Boadi, the Municipal Director of the Department of Social Welfare and Community Development, stated that this initiative was developed after discussions with the Municipal Health Directorate, which highlighted a notable incidence of cervical cancer among women in the area.
During an interview conducted by the Ghana News Agency at the event, Mr. Boadi mentioned that although health screenings are not typically covered under disability support programmes, they align with the goal of enhancing the health and wellbeing of PWDs. He emphasized that many PWDs face obstacles in accessing healthcare due to mobility and social barriers.
He noted, "We realized that persons with disabilities are part of the population at risk, but because of their situation, many find it difficult to seek medical attention even when they have health concerns."
The Assembly initially aimed to accommodate 100 beneficiaries, but the turnout surpassed expectations, indicating a rising demand for healthcare support among PWDs. Mr. Boadi assured that the Assembly would facilitate treatment for those diagnosed with any conditions detected during the screening.
He also mentioned that the expenses related to Hepatitis B vaccinations and other interventions would be covered by the Assembly using funds allocated from the Disability Fund.
Dr. Ebenezer Ekow Aidoo, the Municipal Chief Executive, highlighted the necessity of regular health check-ups and early diagnosis while interacting with the beneficiaries. He asserted that maintaining good health is essential for enhancing the quality of life for PWDs and other vulnerable groups.
Dr. Aidoo stressed that while efforts are underway to help PWDs become economically self-reliant, it is equally vital to address their healthcare needs. He reaffirmed the government's dedication to improving healthcare outcomes for vulnerable populations and praised the collaboration between the Municipal Health Directorate and the Department of Social Welfare and Community Development in organizing the exercise.
The beneficiaries expressed their gratitude to the Assembly for this intervention and urged for similar programmes to be conducted regularly to enhance their access to healthcare services.