Anloga: Residents and patients in the Anloga District are urgently calling on the government to fast-track negotiations with striking nurses and midwives to restore healthcare delivery in the area. The call comes as the strike action by members of the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) enters its second week, significantly affecting health service provision nationwide and across the district.
According to Ghana News Agency, patients at local health facilities say they are feeling the brunt of the industrial action and are appealing to the authorities to act swiftly. In interviews conducted by GNA, residents expressed growing concern over the deteriorating conditions at health centres, especially for vulnerable groups such as pregnant women, the elderly, and children.
A patient at the Anloga Clinic stated, "At this point, the health of all Ghanaians is at stake," urging the Health Minister and stakeholders to address the nurses' concerns immediately. At the Tegbi Clinic, a pregnant woman seeking antenatal care praised the dedication of midwives, even amid the strike, expressing hope for government intervention.
Health professionals, speaking anonymously to GNA, emphasized their commitment to patient welfare while highlighting their demands for better working conditions. They acknowledged their essential role but stressed the need for improved service conditions, noting that some continue to support patients in urgent need.
Mr. Israel Ayivor Moore, Public Relations Officer of GRNMA-Volta Region, called on health stakeholders to support their action for quality service delivery. He urged stakeholders and the public to back their efforts to reach a favorable agreement with the government.
The strike was declared by the GRNMA in response to persistent delays in implementing improved conditions of service and unresolved salary disparities. Despite numerous engagements with government authorities, the association's concerns remain inadequately addressed.
The impact of the industrial action has been felt nationwide, with intensified pressure on the few available healthcare workers in the Anloga District. Some patients have been left stranded or forced to seek care at private facilities. About 200 health workers within the district are GRNMA members across ten health centres, including clinics and CHPS compounds.
Health sector analysts warn that prolonged inaction could lead to a public health crisis, particularly in rural and underserved communities. They urge the Ministry of Health to return to negotiations for a sustainable solution to avoid further strain on the healthcare system.
The GRNMA has reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for its members' welfare, emphasizing that its goal remains quality healthcare delivery for all Ghanaians.