Birim North appeals for urgent postings, as only three doctors serve over 87,000 people

The Birim North District Health Directorate in the Eastern Region has appealed to the government and the Ghana Health Service to urgently deploy more medical doctors to the district. Daniel Darby, the Birim North District Health Director, revealed that only three doctors are currently serving a population of more than 87,000 people. He stated that the district previously had five doctors, but two are currently on study leave. The situation has significantly increased the workload of the available doctors, particularly at the New Abirem District Hospital, which also serves patients from the neighbouring Akyemansa District.

Mr. Darby warned that unless additional doctors are posted, the pressure on existing medical staff could continue to affect the quality and efficiency of healthcare services. Hakeem Abdul Antwi, the Birim North District Chief Executive, acknowledged the staffing challenges and assured residents that the Assembly is taking steps to make the district more attractive to health professionals. He stated that one of the biggest obstacles to attracting doctors is the lack of decent accommodation, and the Assembly has begun plans to construct residential accommodation for medical doctors and other heads of government institutions.