The Minister for Health, Mr. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has inaugurated a steering committee on Thursday in Accra for the Implementation of the Ghana National Surgical, Obstetric and Anesthesia Plan (NSOAP).
The committee’s role is to provide strategic direction necessary to coordinate, monitor, and evaluate efforts to achieve the success of the plan.
Mr Akandoh stated that the NSOAP will not only strengthen healthcare system but also save countless lives and ensure that every Ghanaian, regardless of their location or financial status, has access to quality surgical care.
He added that it was an important step toward reducing maternal and child mortality, effectively managing trauma cases, strengthening emergency and critical care services throughout the country.
According to him, the development of the plan was in line with the broader objectives of the health sector, since it ensures that essential surgical, obstetric, and anesthesia services are incorporated into Ghana’s universal health coverage strategy.
He therefore called upon the committee members to approach their responsibility with a sense of urgency, commitment and excellence.
On his part, the Chairman of the Committee, Prof. John Nkrumah Mills, assured the Minister that with the support of development partners, the resources provided and cooperation from all stakeholders, the committee would successfully achieve Universal Health Care in the country.
He pledged the committee’s dedication to delivering on its mandate in ensuring the provision of Surgical, Obstetric and Anesthesia management in the country.
“We have to start right away, not to rush into implementing any programme but rather to plan, mobilize and strategize such that we make haste by not wasting time on minor issues, but by executing the NSOAP efficiently,” he added.
The Steering Committee brings together experts, policymakers, healthcare professionals, and development partners, whose collective knowledge and dedication will guide the successful implementation of the Ghana National Surgical, Obstetric and Anesthesia Plan.
