Ho Teaching Hospital aims to become a leading medical tourism hub in Ghana, facing challenges from a growing patient base, rising mortality rates, and increased personnel attrition. Significant improvements in diagnostic services were noted, but maternal mortality rates are alarming. HTH seeks government support to enhance healthcare services while developing the medical tourism sector.
The Ho Teaching Hospital (HTH) is working towards becoming a leading medical tourism hub in Ghana amid rising patient demand and mortality rates. Dr. John Tampuori, the CEO, described the hospital’s achievements and ongoing challenges during the 2024 Annual Performance Review Conference. He addressed the increasing patient inflow, leading to overcrowding and a significant rise in mortality rates, particularly among maternal patients.
Dr. Tampuori revealed that HTH’s personnel count increased from 1,532 in 2023 to 1,590 in 2024, excluding clinical staff. While personnel attrition also rose—63 in 2023 to 83 in 2024—he emphasized efforts to retain skilled professionals to meet healthcare targets. HTH’s Outpatient Department witnesses a minor increase in visits, reflecting greater public trust, even though total hospital admissions and surgeries decreased slightly.
A notable increase in maternal mortality was reported, with deaths rising from 18 in 2023 to 20 in 2024, equating to 1,170 deaths per 100,000 live births. Conversely, neonatal mortality saw a decrease, from 63 in 2023 to 55 in 2024. Dr. Tampuori assured that HTH is dedicated to enhancing maternal and neonatal care to further lower these alarming rates.
HTH has marked advancements in diagnostic services, with notable increases in radiology and laboratory procedures. The commitment to quality care is underscored by strategic alliances with local and international healthcare organizations. However, HTH is facing an increase in total hospital deaths and mortality rates, prompting assurances of ongoing improvements in healthcare delivery.
Future plans include meeting international standards in healthcare, expanding outreach initiatives, and investing in research. Mr. Kafui Kanyi highlighted the potential of a medical tourism sector in Ghana to stimulate employment across various sectors, fostering overall economic growth. He urged governmental support in developing health tourism and enhancing hospital accreditation processes to facilitate this endeavor.
HTH’s leadership remains optimistic about becoming Ghana’s premier medical tourism destination through collaboration and comprehensive government support, enhancing healthcare services for both local citizens and international patients.
The Ho Teaching Hospital is navigating significant service demand increases and rising mortality rates as it aims to position itself as a medical tourism leader in Ghana. Through strategic personnel growth, ongoing improvement in healthcare services, and vital governmental support for medical tourism development, HTH is optimistic about enhancing healthcare for both local and international patients. The commitment to quality service and the reduction of mortality rates remain at the forefront of their objectives.
Original Source: gna.org.gh
