GHS calls for public-private partnerships to accelerate universal health coverage

The World Health Organization (WHO) has set an ambitious target of achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) by 2030. Health leaders say meeting this goal requires stronger collaboration between public and private healthcare institutions.

It is against this backdrop that the Greater Accra Regional Health Director of the Ghana Health Service (GHS), Dr Robert Amesiya, has called for deeper partnerships between both sectors to accelerate progress toward UHC.

“I was talking about achieving universal health coverage, which is a priority of the Ministry of Health and, by extension, the government of Ghana. That is to get health care to the doorstep of everyone without any barrier. I was saying actually private partnership with public is one of the shortest ways by which we can achieve this, because it’s not technically possible for the public sector to put health care at every nook and cranny of the country,” he said.

Dr Amesiya made these remarks during the 45th anniversary celebration of Midway Hospital, a private healthcare facility in Accra.

The event, themed “Honouring Legacy, Advancing a Vision: 45 Years of Transforming Lives,” brought together high-profile personalities, including public health leaders, who underscored the vital role of private institutions in strengthening Ghana’s health system.

Midway Hospital’s Medical Director, Dr. Gifty Quarshie-Ngissah, highlighted that the facility has been aligned with WHO’s UHC vision since 2020, making bold strides toward the 2030 target. She added that patient testimonies affirm the hospital’s commitment to quality and accessibility.

“45 years is no mean feat for any organization. For us to have grown from one generation to another and still remain relevant speaks volumes. In 2020, we said we were looking at a future of endless possibilities, and that still holds true. We hope to continue receiving the necessary support from both public and private sectors so that we can advance our vision of becoming a great quaternary facility,” she said.

This year’s celebration also marked five years since the hospital’s founder, Dr Joseph Ameni Quarshie, passed away.

To honour his memory and legacy, a commemorative bust was unveiled, capping a day of reflection and renewed commitment to advancing healthcare excellence.

Credit: Joy News