The Health Facilities Regulatory Agency says the expansion of the Accident and Emergency Block of Ho Teaching Hospital has positioned the facility strongly for medical tourism in the sub-region. Dr Winfred Korletey Baah, Ag Registrar of the Agency, described the newly expanded facility as “excellent” and “world standard,” noting that it had the potential to attract clients from neighbouring countries.

“This is excellent! World standard! This is what we want to see in all major hospitals. This can attract clients from Togo, Benin, Nigeria and elsewhere and has positioned you well for Medical Tourism,” he said. Dr Baah made the remarks during a working visit to the Hospital, where he toured the expanded Accident and Emergency facility. He commended the MTN Ghana Foundation for supporting the expansion project with additional beds and modern equipment and encouraged other corporate organisations to consider similar interventions to strengthen emergency care services across the country.

The Ag Registrar also praised the Management of the Hospital for its forward-looking vision towards medical tourism. “You are doing well. I’m happy with what I have seen here. You are the pacesetter, and many other hospitals must come and learn from you,” he said. Dr Baah further encouraged the Hospital to establish a Bed Management Bureau to address the issue of “no bed syndrome” and enhance efficient patient flow and resource management within the facility. He emphasised the importance of collaboration between the regulator and service providers to strengthen quality healthcare delivery in the country.

The Registrar said the Authority had undertaken a nationwide needs assessment of hospitals and assured that some facilities would receive support in due course. “So, we don’t only shut down hospitals; we are your advocates as well. We are in this together with a common goal to improve healthcare delivery,” he stated.

Responding, Dr Hintermann K. K. Mbroh, Chief Executive Officer of Ho Teaching Hospital, reaffirmed the Hospital’s commitment to remaining a leading centre for innovative healthcare and medical tourism. He noted that the Hospital was formalising its operational processes and developing Standard Operating Procedures towards the establishment of a Bed Management Bureau, welcoming the suggestion from the Registrar. Dr Mbroh added that Management remained committed to strengthening systems and infrastructure to enhance patient care and position the Hospital as a preferred destination for specialised healthcare services.

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