The Acting District Director of Health Services for Adansi Akrofuom, Joseph Kofi Annor, has expressed concern over a growing shortage of health workers in the district, linking the situation partly to accommodation challenges driven by illegal mining activities.
According to him, many landlords now prefer renting their properties to galamsey operators, who are able to pay higher rates, making it increasingly difficult for nurses and other health workers to find housing in the area.
Mr. Annor made the remarks during the commissioning of two new health facilities at Yaadome and Mprekyere by the Adansi Akrofuom District Assembly. The facilities are expected to improve access to healthcare in rural communities across the Ashanti Region.
Speaking to Adom News correspondent Isaac K. Normanyo, he described the new facilities as a major relief for residents, noting that they would significantly reduce the need for patients to travel long distances for medical care.
However, he cautioned that the shortage of personnel could limit the full impact of the new infrastructure, stressing the urgent need for more nurses to be posted to the district.
Mr. Annor also pointed to transportation challenges affecting outreach services, calling for the provision of motorbikes to help health workers reach remote communities more effectively.