The Deputy Minister of Health, Honourable Alexander Akwasi Acquah, has urged newly inducted pharmacists to accept postings to rural communities.
He emphasized the critical role they play in improving healthcare delivery in these areas. He made this appeal during an induction ceremony for 364 newly qualified and registered pharmacists in Accra, organized by the Pharmacy Council of Ghana.
Speaking exclusively to Wontumi News on the sidelines of the ceremony, Hon. Acquah noted that the Akufo-Addo led government is committed to enhancing healthcare delivery in rural communities through various initiatives, including the Agenda 111 projects. “These projects, when completed, will significantly improve healthcare infrastructure and access to quality healthcare services in rural areas,” he explained.
“We need pharmacists to accept postings to rural areas to help address the disparities in healthcare access and outcomes. By doing so, they will not only be serving their communities but also contributing to the achievement of universal health coverage,” he said.
Hon. Acquah acknowledged that working in rural areas can come with challenges, but he assured that the government is working to address these issues. “We are committed to providing the necessary support and resources to ensure that healthcare professionals, including pharmacists, can work effectively and efficiently in rural areas,” he said.
The induction ceremony, themed “Universal Health Coverage: Embracing Digital Frontiers to Leverage Access to Quality Healthcare,” marked the induction of pharmacists from five accredited institutions into the Pharmacy Council of Ghana.
The Registrar of the Pharmacy Council, Dr. Daniel Amaning Danquah, emphasized the need to curb the influx of unlicensed pharmacists selling dangerous drugs to the public. He assured that the council has adopted measures to address this issue and ensure public confidence in licensed pharmacists.
The President of the Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana, Dr. Samuel Kow Donkoh, stressed the importance of professional conduct and good interpersonal relationships with patients. He encouraged the new pharmacists to reflect their training in their work and provide quality care to those in need.
“As pharmacists, you have a critical role to play in the healthcare system. I urge you to embrace this responsibility and work towards improving healthcare outcomes in Ghana,” he said.