North East Regional Health Directorate Conducts 2024 Performance Review Meeting
The North East Regional Directorate of the Ghana Health Service held its 2024 annual performance review in Nalerigu, focusing on strategies for achieving Universal Health Coverage. Dr. Braimah Abubakari Baba reported both progress and challenges in healthcare delivery, including a decline in OPD attendance and rising stillbirth and neonatal mortality rates. Support from government and international partners emphasizes a commitment to improving health outcomes in the region.
The North East Regional Directorate of the Ghana Health Service convened its 2024 annual performance review meeting to assess prior year programs and interventions. Held over two days in Nalerigu, the meeting embraced the theme, “Rational Management of Health Workforce towards Achieving Quality Universal Health Coverage.” The session gathered essential stakeholders, including traditional leaders and representatives from local and international health partners such as KOICA and UNICEF.
Participants evaluated both accomplishments and challenges faced throughout the previous year, proposing actionable solutions for enhanced performance in 2025. Dr. Braimah Abubakari Baba, the North East Regional Director of GHS, reported significant progress in healthcare delivery targeting Universal Health Coverage (UHC) by 2030. However, he noted a slight decline in Out-Patient Department (OPD) attendance, dropping from 498,448 in 2023 to 484,444 in 2024, a downturn of 2.8 percent.
Despite this, antenatal care registration witnessed a modest increase from 40.6 percent to 42.3 percent in the first trimester. Dr. Baba also pointed out that total deliveries fell from 21,086 to 20,553, while the maternal mortality ratio improved remarkably, declining from 51 per 100,000 live births to 48. This figure exceeds the UHC target of 70 by 2030. Conversely, stillbirth rates increased from 8.6 percent to 9.1 percent, alongside a rise in neonatal mortality.
Challenges such as inadequate health infrastructure persist, complicating the delivery of quality healthcare. The North East Region continues to lack regional medical stores, impairing local supply lines for essential medications. Mr. Ibrahim Tia, the Regional Minister, expressed appreciation for the Directorate’s efforts, emphasizing government support for UHC initiatives.
KOICA’s representative, Miss Myeongseon Kim, reinforced the Korean government’s commitment to Ghana’s healthcare development, highlighting ongoing projects aimed at enhancing health security and maternal health. She underscored the significance of strengthening healthcare workforce capabilities and improving community engagement. Naa Bohagu Mahami Abdulai Sheriga, the Mamprugu Traditional Area Overlord, commended the GHS for its dedication to quality healthcare and urged for continued peace and stability in the region.
The North East Regional Directorate of the Ghana Health Service has demonstrated notable progress in healthcare delivery, yet challenges remain, particularly regarding healthcare infrastructure and rising mortality rates. The annual review meeting served as a crucial platform for stakeholders to discuss past achievements and strategize for 2025. With continued support from both national and international partners, the region is poised to advance towards Universal Health Coverage by 2030.
Original Source: gna.org.gh
