Kumasi:Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, the Minister of Health, has highlighted the critical role of a skilled and motivated health workforce in the successful implementation of the Free Primary Healthcare initiative and the enhancement of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).
According to Ghana Web, Akandoh emphasized that efforts to expand healthcare access and improve service delivery largely depend on the availability of qualified health professionals who are adequately supported in their roles.
Akandoh's remarks were delivered by Desmond Boateng, Chief Director of the Ministry of Health, at the fourth Annual General Meeting of the Health Sector Occupational Pension Scheme. The event, held in Kumasi, focused on strengthening pension security through smart investments, good governance, and a sustainable future.
The Minister pointed out that health professionals are crucial to Ghana's healthcare transformation, providing essential medical services to communities and ensuring healthcare interventions meet their objectives. He stated that the Free Primary Healthcare initiative, the NHIS, and other healthcare measures require skilled and motivated professionals to consistently deliver high-quality services.
Despite progress in training health professionals, Akandoh noted challenges in creating employment opportunities for trained individuals. He called for aligning health workforce planning with national healthcare priorities to improve access in underserved areas.
Additionally, Akandoh highlighted the importance of the Health Sector Occupational Pension Scheme in securing retirement income for health workers. He urged trustees and administrators to maintain high standards of governance, transparency, and accountability in managing contributions. He stressed the need for prudent investments and effective oversight to protect pension funds and ensure the scheme's sustainability.
The Minister encouraged health workers to actively engage with their pension arrangements, update personal records, and seek clarification on benefits for informed retirement planning.