Akyempim: Society of Family Physicians of Ghana (SOFPOG) has been commended for its unwavering commitment to strengthening primary healthcare delivery in Ghana. Joseph Nelson, the Western Regional Minister, praised the society for its dedication to holistic, patient-centred, and community-based healthcare, noting that its contribution continued to play a crucial role in Ghana's health system. He made the remarks during SOFPOG's stakeholder engagement held to commemorate this year's World Family Doctor Day at Akyempim in the Tarkwa Nsuaem Municipality. The programme was held on the theme: 'Strengthening primary care through compassion and digital innovation.'
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Nelson emphasized the importance of maintaining compassion at the centre of healthcare delivery, even as digital technology increasingly transformed medical practice globally. He stated, 'As a government, we recognize that achieving universal health coverage will not be possible without strengthening healthcare delivery at the community level. This is why the current administration continues to prioritize investment in primary healthcare across the country.'
The Minister assured family physicians and frontline health workers that the Western Regional Coordinating Council would continue to support initiatives aimed at improving quality healthcare delivery, community well-being, and innovation in the health sector. He also urged stakeholders to use the engagement not only as a platform for discussion but as an avenue to build practical partnerships and develop actionable solutions to improve healthcare delivery.
Daniel Boadi, Managing Director of AngloGold Ashanti Iduapriem Mine, also spoke at the event, emphasizing the company's commitment to safety and the belief that quality healthcare is a fundamental human right. He noted that access to quality healthcare promoted community well-being, productivity, and national development. Mr. Boadi expressed optimism that deliberations at the programme would generate innovative ideas, practical recommendations, and sustainable solutions needed to strengthen Ghana's primary healthcare system.
The President of SOFPOG, Baaba Damoah, highlighted that Ghana's health system was largely anchored on primary care, which remained the core area of operation for family physicians. She explained that the number of family physicians in the country had increased over the years, with many now serving in district-level facilities. Dr. Damoah emphasized that family physicians are integral to community healthcare, managing district and municipal hospitals while supervising health centres and CHPS compounds to ensure residents have access to specialist care at the community level.
Wilhemina Tiwaah Duah Morttey, Municipal Director of Health Services for Tarkwa Nsuaem, praised SOFPOG for organizing free surgeries and medical screening exercises for residents in the municipality earlier this month, further highlighting the society's significant contributions to community health.