Accra: Dr. Adaysle Martin Atuguba, Director of University Health Services at Tamale Technical University (TaTU) Hospital, has called on the government, development partners, and corporate organizations to help expand the hospital's infrastructure to improve healthcare delivery.
According to Ghana News Agency, Dr. Atuguba revealed that the nine-year-old hospital, currently operating with just 53 beds, is often forced to treat patients on chairs, couches, and even on the floor due to inadequate space. He made this appeal during a ceremony where Oxfam in Ghana, through its 'Power to Choose' project, donated medical equipment and essential medicines valued at GHS1,497,928.66 to boost maternal, newborn, and sexual and reproductive healthcare services at the facility.
Dr. Atuguba stressed the necessity of enhancing the hospital's infrastructure, particularly with the completion of a new theatre, which would allow the facility to perform major surgical procedures that were previously referred to the Tamale Teaching Hospital. He pointed out that while health workers continue to care for all patients seeking treatment, addressing the infrastructure challenges is vital for improving access to quality healthcare.
He outlined the need for additional wards, consulting rooms, and treatment spaces to handle the expected rise in admissions and ensure patients receive quality care in a conducive environment. Although the hospital was originally meant to serve the Tamale Technical University community, students and staff make up less than five percent of its patient population. Most clients come from communities like Nyohini, Gumbihini, Kukuo, Sagnarigu, and even beyond the Northern Region.
Dr. Atuguba noted that the increasing patronage indicates public confidence in the services provided, despite the hospital's limited resources. He reiterated his appeal to the government and other stakeholders to invest in expanding the facility to meet the healthcare needs of the growing population in the Sagnarigu Municipality and beyond.
He described the donation from Oxfam in Ghana and its partners as timely, stating that the equipment provided will significantly enhance emergency response as well as the quality of maternal and reproductive healthcare services for residents of Sagnarigu and nearby communities. He also praised Oxfam in Ghana, Norsaac, and the Ghana Health Service for supporting the training of over 10 medical doctors and midwives, which has bolstered staff skills and confidence in delivering maternal, newborn, and adolescent sexual and reproductive healthcare.