The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has directed all Regional Directors of Health Service to prioritise the establishment of disability-friendly facilities in hospitals across the country.
The directive, issued on February 24, 2025, aims to improve accessibility and inclusivity for persons with disabilities in the healthcare system.
The order follows a meeting with Regional Directors on February 13th, where the Director-General emphasised the need for enhanced accessibility.
Subsequently, the GHS engaged with the National Disability Council and the Ghana Federation of Disability Organisations (GFD) to discuss ways to create a more inclusive healthcare system. Discussions focused on improving rehabilitation services, integrating disability-friendly facilities, and strengthening overall healthcare access for persons with disabilities.
Acting Director-General of the GHS, Prof. Samuel Kaba Akoriyeya, stated that Section 33 of the Disability Act mandates the Health Service to ensure PWDs have access to comprehensive healthcare services on par with others. This includes making necessary modifications for better access to healthcare facilities and ensuring priority is given to individuals with disabilities, including the provision of sign language interpreters.
Regional Directors have been tasked with the following responsibilities:
1. Activating existing systems and structures within health facilities to fully implement the legal provisions concerning disability services.
2. Ensuring the Institutional Social Welfare Office/Desk in all Regional and District Hospitals is operational as soon as possible.
3. Updating the Peer Review checklist to reflect all indicators that promote inclusivity and quality health services for persons with disabilities at all levels.
4. Re-orienting regional and district disability focal persons to enhance their understanding of their rights and responsibilities.
Prof. Akoriyeya reiterated the importance of these directives, stating that compliance will be a significant part of Regional Directors’ Performance Appraisals and will be strictly monitored by his office.
The GHS’s move is a welcome step towards fulfilling its legal obligations and creating a more inclusive healthcare system for all Ghanaians.
SOURCE: DisabilityNewsGH.com