Stroke survivors demand inclusive healthcare, urgent policy interventions nationwide

Stroke survivors and advocates urged the government to improve healthcare access and support systems to reduce disability at a News conference in Ho to mark the National Stroke Survivors Day, observed annually on March 16.

The event, organised by Stroke Association SupportNetwork - Ghana (SASNET Ghana), brought together stroke survivors, caregivers, health professionals and stakeholders to highlight challenges confronting persons living with stroke. Mr Callistus Edoh, Volta Regional Chairman of SASNET Ghana, said the day was set aside to raise awareness on stroke and advocate for improved care. He explained that this year's theme, "Stroke Survivors: Unseen, Unheard and Unmet," reflected the invisible struggles, lack of representation and gaps in healthcare services. Mr Ebenezer Ad Adams, Executive Director of SASNET Ghana, said stroke survivors continued to struggle with unclear National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) coverage. He called on the government to expedite action on the Assistive Technology Policy and expand support through the Livelihood Empowerment Against Poverty (LEAP) programme. Mr Adams also urged authorities to clarify the provisions under the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, popularly known as "Mahama Care," to ensure that stroke-related services are adequately covered.

Mr Adams revealed that more than 16,000 stroke survivors were registered nationwide, with over 500 in the Volta Region alone, stressing that the actual figures could be higher. Stakeholders noted that stroke remained a leading cause of disability and death in Ghana, with survivors often facing long-term physical and economic hardship. They called for increased investment in healthcare infrastructure, including the provision of MRI and CT scan machines, and the training of more neurologists to improve diagnosis and treatment. Mr Edoh cited a recent case, where a stroke patient was reportedly denied oxygen due to NHIS coverage issues, describing the situation as unacceptable. Mr Samuel Sedodo, Vice President, SASNET GHANA, also emphasised the