Tarkwa: Mrs. Wilhelmina Tiwaah Duah Morttey, the Municipal Director of Health Services in Tarkwa Nsuaem, has announced a significant decline in anaemia among pregnant women within the municipality. This development marks a notable achievement, as addressing anaemia in pregnancy was a major challenge at the beginning of 2024. The announcement was made during the 2024 annual review meeting held by the Directorate to assess its progress and challenges over the past year.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mrs. Morttey highlighted that the directorate also recorded a decrease in stillbirths, attributing this success to the hard work and dedication of their midwives. However, she noted that maternal mortality rates have stagnated, emphasizing the need for continued focus and collaborative efforts to address this issue. The directorate also observed a reduction in exclusive breastfeeding rates, which Mrs. Morttey identified as an area requiring immediate attention and action to promote and support practices critical to children's health and wellbeing.
Despite the initial challenges faced in 2024, the directorate has made remarkable progress, notably expanding its services to reach more community members. The year under review witnessed the commissioning of the Nsuaem Government Hospital and the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), upgrading two CHPS compounds to health centers, and accrediting four CHPS facilities under the NHIS.
The directorate responded to several outbreaks, including a cholera outbreak resulting in three deaths and 174 suspected cases. They worked tirelessly to contain the outbreak and prevent further spread. Additionally, they recorded two positive measles cases and one rabies death, underscoring the importance of disease prevention and control efforts.
In terms of infrastructure, the Municipal assembly completed the Benso maternity unit, and several community-led projects, such as the Amantin CHPS compound and the re-roofing of the Tarkwa Banso health center and Bonsawire ward, were also accomplished. Ongoing projects include the renovation of the Simpa health center and the construction of Benso Staff quarters by Benso Oil Palm Plantation Plc (BOPP).
Mrs. Morttey expressed her gratitude for the wide range of donations of medical supplies and equipment from various organizations and philanthropists, which have been instrumental in supporting their work. She commended the staff for their hard work over the past year and urged them to remain committed to providing comprehensive and quality healthcare.
During the event, Mrs. Marian Quaye, Chief Nursing and Midwifery Officer at the Western Regional Health Directorate, and Mr. Nicholas Adomako, Western Regional Disease Control Officer, advised staff to uphold high standards of professionalism in their interactions with patients and colleagues. Nana Eguatu I, the queen mother of Bankyiem, who chaired the function, encouraged the staff to treat patients with kindness, respect, and dignity.