Private Health Sector in Ghana calls for Healthcare Reforms
The Private Health Facilities Association of Ghana (PHFAoG) has issued a call for complete reforms in the nation’s healthcare system.
This appeal follows the association’s 4th Annual General Conference, which took place in Koforidua from September 18-20, 2024.
In a communique released post-conference, the PHFAoG highlighted several critical areas needing urgent attention. Major among these is the need for improved healthcare data management.
The association emphasized the importance of better integrating private healthcare data into national systems, citing current difficulties in reporting mechanisms.
Human resource scarcity was identified as another significant challenge. The PHFAoG stressed that the shortage of healthcare professionals poses a substantial obstacle to delivering quality care across the private health sector.
The association also called for a review of regulatory standards, describing some existing regulations as unrealistic. They advocated for standards that are both possible and effective in maintaining healthcare quality.
The PHFAoG emphasized the need for greater government support, particularly regarding tax policies affecting the importation of medical equipment. The association believes that current policies may be hindering the sector’s capacity to acquire crucial medical technology.
Despite these challenges, the PHFAoG acknowledged recent improvements in insurance claim payments, showing a positive trend in the sector’s financial operations.
To address these issues, the association proposed several key reforms:
- Overhaul of healthcare data management systems
- Review and adjustment of regulatory standards
- Reforms in health insurance claim processes
4Reconsideration of tax policies on medical equipment imports
These proposed reforms emphasize the private sector’s vital role in the pursuit of universal health coverage in Ghana, highlighting both challenges and opportunities in the nation’s developing healthcare terrain.
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Story by: Promise Yaa Dakey | Univers.ug.edu.gh
