Health workers in deprived areas to be rewarded

Asankrangwa (W/R) April 1, GNA- Personnel of the Ghana Health Service (GHS) working in 32 deprived districts in the country would be given allowance as an incentive.

The project, which is on a pilot basis, would be extended to other deprived areas later, Professor Agyeman Badu Akosa, Director General of the Ghana Health Service (GHS) said this at separate meetings with health personnel at Asankragwa as part of a five-day working visit to the Western Region. He said the project is meant to reward health personnel who are willing to serve and continue to sacrifice for the country in deprived communities.

Prof. Akosa said the GHS was negotiating with the government to institute a rural housing scheme for such workers. He commended health personnel working in rural and deprived areas for their commitment, dedication and hard work that would make health care accessible to the rural population.

Prof. Akosa expressed concern about the attitude of some health workers who leave the country to seek greener pastures soon after their training and called on the government to take measures to halt the trend. "This behaviour if not halted, could hamper the nation's desire for an effective health care delivery", he added.