Gov't is developing a roadmap to address challenges affecting maternal healthcare - Dep Health Minister

The Deputy Minister for Health, Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah, has revealed that plans are underway to introduce a technology-driven bed management system to address bed shortages in emergency departments. She noted that the pilot phase has commenced, with all hospitals having established bed management teams to support its implementation.

Speaking before the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of Parliament, Dr. Ayensu-Danquah also stated that the government has identified key challenges affecting maternal healthcare. She announced that a roadmap is being developed to ensure uniform standards of care, quality control, and quality assurance across all regions, while calling for dedicated funding for maternal health.

During the same session, the Public Accounts Committee announced that it has fulfilled its corporate social responsibility (CSR) commitment by settling GH¢33,100 in outstanding debts owed to Pantang Hospital. This includes GH¢17,000 owed by the Ghana Medical Association and GH¢16,100 owed by the Akuapem South Municipal Assembly for treating individuals with mental health conditions found on the streets.

Major health institutions—including the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, the Greater Accra Regional Hospital (Ridge), Pantang Hospital, and the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital—responded to infractions cited in the 2025 Auditor-General’s Performance Audit Report on the Management of Mortuary Facilities in Public Hospitals.

Additionally, the Births and Deaths Registry provided updates on infractions cited in the 2025 Performance Audit Report regarding government efforts to reduce maternal mortality in Ghana.

Meanwhile, the Unified Petroleum Price Fund (UPPF), operating under the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), stated in its response to audit infractions that the deployment of technology has greatly helped the institution obtain real-time data and track Bulk Road Vehicle (BRV) movements.

The Committee concluded its hearing after discharging representatives of Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) due to the absence of the Administrator of the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF), Mr. Michael Harry Yamson.