Frank Amoakohene announces 96 health facilities for Ashanti Region

Dr. Frank Amoakohene, the Ashanti Regional Minister, has announced that 96 health facilities are currently under construction across various Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) in the Ashanti Region. The initiative is part of a strategic effort to decentralize healthcare delivery and ensure that residents in both urban and rural areas have easier access to quality medical services. By expanding the network of clinics and hospitals, the regional administration aims to reduce the travel distance for patients and provide more immediate care.

Among the key projects currently underway is a new specialized Breast Care Centre at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH), a dedicated paediatric clinic, and a health facility located in Moshie Zongo. Speaking at a sod-cutting ceremony for the Breast Care Centre, Dr. Amoakohene emphasized that these investments are essential for building a more resilient and equitable healthcare system. He noted that the projects are designed to address specific gaps in specialized care while strengthening the overall health infrastructure of the region.

A primary motivation for the new Breast Care Centre is the high incidence of late-stage breast cancer diagnoses in Ghana. The Minister expressed concern that many cases are identified too late for effective treatment, leading to lower survival rates. Through the new facility at KATH and increased public awareness, the government aims to reach a target where at least 60% of breast cancer cases are detected at early, treatable stages. This focus on early intervention is expected to significantly improve clinical outcomes for patients across the region.

The regional administration believes that the completion of these 96 facilities will help alleviate the heavy burden on major referral hospitals, which are currently overstretched. By providing localized and specialized services, the projects aim to bridge the gap in healthcare access and improve the general well-being of the population. Traditional authorities and the public have been encouraged to support these initiatives to ensure their successful integration and long-term sustainability within their respective communities.