Health Ministry to Procure 400 New Ambulances and Mandate CCTV Installations Nationwide

Ghana's health sector is set for a significant transformation as authorities move to address critical gaps in emergency response and workplace security. The National Ambulance Service (NAS) has sounded an alarm over its ageing fleet, prompting plans for the procurement of 400 new ambulances and a specialized rapid response motorbike unit. Simultaneously, the Ministry of Health has issued a mandatory directive for the installation of CCTV systems across all public health facilities to protect healthcare professionals from increasing incidents of violence. These twin initiatives represent a strategic effort to modernize Ghana’s medical infrastructure while ensuring the safety of those providing essential services.

The National Ambulance Service is currently grappling with a fleet that has largely surpassed its optimal operational lifespan. According to Dr. Simon Akayiri Nyaaba, Deputy Director of PPRME at NAS, the majority of the 323 ambulances currently deployed across 319 sites were last updated in 2018, leading to frequent breakdowns and maintenance challenges. Dr. Nyaaba highlighted that delays in procuring spare parts have further hindered service efficiency. In response, NAS CEO Dr. George Kojo Owusu emphasized that the service is transitioning from a transport-oriented model to a comprehensive prehospital emergency care provider. The planned acquisition of 400 new vehicles and the introduction of a motorbike unit are expected to drastically improve response times and service reliability.

Addressing the rising concerns regarding the safety of medical personnel, the Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has mandated the immediate installation of CCTV cameras in all health facilities, ranging from Community-based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) compounds to major teaching hospitals. This directive aims to deter physical attacks and verbal abuse against staff, which have become a growing concern in the healthcare sector. The Minister assured that the implementation of these security systems would be supported by existing budget provisions, ensuring that financial challenges do not stall the rollout. This proactive measure is intended to create a more secure working environment, allowing medical staff to focus on patient care without fear of aggression.

Together, these developments signal a pivotal shift in the management of Ghana's health services. By addressing the logistical bottlenecks of the ambulance fleet and the security vulnerabilities within hospital wards, the Ministry of Health and the NAS are working to build a more resilient and professional healthcare system. As the new ambulances are procured and surveillance systems are integrated, the focus remains on professional development and the continuous improvement of emergency systems to meet the needs of the Ghanaian population effectively.