Latest Updates from Hospitals and the Ministry

Healthcare delivery in Ghana has been at the centre of national conversation in recent months, with significant developments emerging from hospitals and the Ministry of Health (MoH). From new security directives and service reforms to infrastructure investments and digital innovation, Ghana’s health sector is undergoing noteworthy changes that affect patients, health workers, policymakers, and entire communities. This article explores the most recent updates, highlights ongoing challenges, and explains how government actions are shaping the future of healthcare in the country.

1. Strengthened Hospital Security After High-Profile Incidents

One of the most talked-about developments in Ghana’s health sector is a directive from the Ministry of Health to tighten security across all public health facilities following a disturbing incident at the Mamprobi Polyclinic in Accra. In February 2026, the ministry officially instructed all hospitals and clinics to amp up their security measures after a case of baby theft occurred at the facility. The ministry commended the coordinated response involving the Ghana Police Service, the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, and alert citizens whose whistle-blowing brought attention to the matter.

Security concerns in health facilities are not new, but a directive of this nature reflects a government effort to protect patients, especially vulnerable groups like newborns. Strengthening security not only aims to prevent criminal activity but also to build public confidence in the nation’s hospitals.

2. New Investigations at Major Hospitals

In addition to the security directive, the MoH has also launched a formal investigation into alleged misconduct at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital (Ridge Hospital). In January 2026, the ministry responded to a report published by investigative journalists detailing concerning practices at the facility. The ministry expressed sympathy for anyone who may have experienced unprofessional care and acknowledged the seriousness of the issues raised.

As a result, the Ministry is constituting an investigative committee to examine the allegations thoroughly, calling on stakeholders  including the media outlet that published the report  to assist in revealing the facts. The committee is expected to submit its findings within fourteen working days of its formation.

This development signals growing accountability expectations for healthcare institutions and government agencies alike. It also highlights how media scrutiny can help push for improvements in service delivery.

3. Budget Boosts and New Hospital Construction Plans

Beyond immediate operational concerns, Ghana’s health sector is seeing strategic long-term investments. The 2026 national budget presented by the government placed significant emphasis on healthcare infrastructure. According to analysts, the Ministry of Health received GH₵22.8 billion (about 7.5% of total government expenditure) for health initiatives aimed at expanding access, modernising facilities, and improving quality of care.

Key infrastructure plans include:

• Construction of six new regional hospitals in newly created regions of Ghana.

• Completion of Agenda 111 hospital projects a flagship initiative intended to establish high-quality district and regional hospitals throughout the country.

• Upgrades to seven hospitals specifically targeting maternal and child health services.

• Progress on previously stalled facilities such as La General Hospital and the Komfo Anokye Maternity Block.

This major capital injection represents one of the most ambitious health infrastructure plans in recent times. If executed well, it could significantly reduce regional disparities in health access and strengthen tertiary care systems.

4. Digital Health System Plans and Controversies

Digital health transformation has been another critical focus for the Ministry. Earlier in 2025, the Health Minister announced a four-week plan to restore Ghana’s electronic health system, which had been grappling with technical breakdowns. This initiative aimed to ensure that hospitals and health facilities nationwide could rely on digital platforms for patient records, service coordination, and data reporting.

However, the digital health programme has also been a source of controversy. In a public dispute, a private health technology firm Lightwave E-Healthcare Solutions Limited rebutted statements made by the Health Minister regarding the management of Ghana’s national e-healthcare programme. The disagreement highlighted tensions between government expectations and private sector involvement in digital health infrastructure.

Despite these debates, the push toward digitising health data and services remains critical. Digital systems can streamline patient management, reduce paperwork, and improve overall efficiency but only if well implemented and maintained.

5. Strengthening Hospital Governance and Management

The Ministry of Health has also been active in strengthening governance structures within the health sector. It recently swore in new boards for six major health agencies including the National Blood Service, Mental Health Authority, Ghana College of Pharmacists, and Allied Health Professions Council. These appointments were intended to boost leadership, accountability, and policy execution across the sector.

Good governance is an essential pillar of a strong health system. By appointing qualified boards, the MoH is attempting to ensure that agencies have the strategic direction and oversight needed to improve service quality and meet national health goals.

6. Performance Agreements with Teaching Hospitals

In line with efforts to drive performance improvements, the Ministry signed two-year performance contract agreements with Ghana’s six teaching hospitals and the University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC). These contracts define expectations, targets, and responsibilities for clinical excellence, efficiency, and improved patient outcomes.

Teaching hospitals like Korle-Bu, Komfo Anokye, and Tamale are key referral centres in Ghana’s health ecosystem. Formalising performance goals can help improve standards while holding management accountable to better healthcare delivery.

7. Epicentre of Reform: Workforce and Training Gains

Addressing health workforce shortages remains a major priority. In 2025, the government announced the employment of over 10,000 nurses and midwives as part of an effort to clear the backlog of qualified health workers awaiting placement. This recruitment drive also included disbursing significant funds (GH₵462.58 million) as training allowances.

The nurse and midwife workforce is essential in service delivery, especially in rural areas where doctors may be scarce. Strengthening this cadre not only improves day-to-day hospital operations but also enhances Ghana’s capacity to handle health emergencies.

Additionally, launching an online admissions portal for health training institutions is expected to improve access for students across the country a step that aligns with the country’s long-term health education goals.

8. Public Health and Infection Management Updates

Hospitals on the frontline of disease management have also seen significant developments. One notable story from 2025 was the recovery and discharge of a Mpox (Monkeypox) patient in Tema, as confirmed by the local health directorate. The case was handled with strict protocols, and follow-ups showed no further transmission among contacts a public health win for contact tracing and infection control.

While Mpox cases have been relatively few in Ghana, this episode underscores the importance of preparedness, surveillance, and community engagement all functions supported by both hospitals and public health authorities.

9. Improving Patient Experience and Hospital Practices

In the realm of patient care standards, the Ghana Health Service (which works closely with the MoH) issued directives to improve the hospital experience, including stopping the practice of charging patients for basic amenities like toilet usage — a practice deemed exploitative and contrary to accepted healthcare norms. Facility heads who fail to comply with this directive risk sanctions.

Such policies matter because they touch on the dignity and respect afforded to patients. Clean, comfortable, and accessible facilities contribute to better perceptions of the health system and encourage more people to seek medical care early.

10. Nationwide Quality of Care Review

Ghana has also completed its first nationwide quality of care assessment, reviewing how clinical services are delivered across more than 1,600 health facilities nationwide. This exercise assessed adherence to national and international standards in key areas like antenatal care and childhood disease management.

The findings from this review will guide future training, resource allocation, and performance improvement plans — and represent a major step toward evidence-based health policy in Ghana.

11. Future Directions: Innovation and Long-Term Goals

A notable innovation initiative involves Ghana’s public health agencies partnering with private and international entities to explore AI-driven health transformation. Through collaboration with a Ghana-based Chinese company, plans are in place to establish AI-enabled treatment centres, intelligent diagnostic systems, and modern data platforms aimed at improving healthcare delivery nationwide.

Integrating artificial intelligence and advanced technology could modernise diagnostic processes, strengthen supply chain management, and support clinical decision-making. While these are early steps, they signal Ghana’s openness to adopting cutting-edge solutions to long-standing health challenges.

The landscape of healthcare in Ghana is actively evolving, shaped by policy reforms, funding boosts, accountability measures, and technological innovation. Recent directives from the Ministry of Health show a clear commitment to improving service quality, securing patient safety, and strengthening institutional governance. Key developments from security upgrades and investigations at major hospitals to ambitious infrastructure plans and workforce expansion reveal both progress and remaining gaps in the system.

However, the journey toward a robust, equitable, and patient-centric health system is ongoing. Continuous engagement with health workers, community feedback, investment in infrastructure, and the effective implementation of digital and performance-driven reforms will be essential in realising Ghana’s vision of accessible, quality healthcare for all.