By Daniel Agbesi Latsu/Kingsley Mamore
Dambai (O/R), June 10, GNA- The Nurses and Midwives strike is taking a heavy toll on healthcare delivery in the Oti region, with the Dambai Polyclinic in the Krachi East Municipality being brought to no activity and severely disrupting services.
The strike has left patients struggling to access medical care, with many expressing frustration and concern.
A visit to the facility by the Ghana News Agency (GNA), revealed a stark contrast to its usual bustling atmosphere, with only a handful of staff, including dispensary workers and records keepers, present.
The absence of nurses has created a significant vacuum in healthcare delivery in the area and the government must intervene immediately.
Most residents, who were engaged by GNA, are urging authorities to find an urgent solution to the crisis, highlighting the need for uninterrupted healthcare services.
The outcome of ongoing negotiations between the nurses’ union and authorities remains uncertain, leaving patients in limbo.
The strike has raised concerns about the impact on patients’ health, particularly those with critical medical conditions. A swift resolution is eagerly awaited to restore normalcy to the facility.
Meanwhile, at the Kadjebi Health Centre, a visit by the Ghana News Agency, at about 1000 hours on Tuesday, June 10, revealed a sorrowful situation of no activity with the GRNMA members were virtually absent, except for those belonging to the Union of Professional Nurses and Midwives, Ghana (UPNMG).
GNA’s attempt to speak with Mr. Joseph Yekple, the Kadjebi District Chairman of GRNMA, failed as he refused to pick up the calls after the reporter introduced himself.
However, a former Kadjebi District Executive member of GRNMA, who wished to remain anonymous, stated that they are demanding rural incentives for nurses and midwives serving in deprived and remote areas.
She indicated that they are also asking for free healthcare for all nurses and the payment of a 13-month allowance for all nurses.
Additionally, she mentioned that they are calling for a fuel allowance for senior nurses, asserting that their demands are legitimate and that the government should heed them.
Ms. Rashida Mahama, a pregnant woman, who was met by GNA at the maternity block, added her voice to the appeal for the government to listen to the striking nurses and midwives so they can return to work.
She said patients are feeling the brunt of the industrial action the most and the dutybearers.
GNA
Edited by Maxwell Awumah/Kenneth Odeng Adade