Cape Coast Teaching Hospital Faces Challenges with Maternal and Neonatal Mortality Rates
The Cape Coast Teaching Hospital reports high maternal and neonatal mortality rates, with 863 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births and 40 neonatal deaths per 1,000 live births in 2024. Dr. Eric Kofi Ngyedu emphasized the need for improved facilities, particularly a neonatal intensive care unit. Despite challenges, the hospital is committed to enhancing healthcare services and has initiated support programs for staff.
The Cape Coast Teaching Hospital has made significant progress in healthcare services but continues to experience high rates of maternal and neonatal mortality. In 2024, the maternal mortality ratio was reported at 863 deaths per 100,000 live births, indicating severe challenges related to pregnancy and childbirth complications. Additionally, the neonatal mortality rate stood at 40 deaths per 1,000 live births, highlighting the risks newborns face within their first month of life.
Dr. Eric Kofi Ngyedu, the Chief Executive Officer of the hospital, expressed concerns during the facility’s 2024 annual performance review, noting that despite efforts to enhance healthcare quality, the situation remains troubling. He cited the need for a standardized neonatal intensive care unit as particularly pressing and lamented the lack of institutional support for the facility’s conditions. Challenges such as high utility costs, maintenance of aging equipment, and hospital land encroachment further hinder the provision of quality care.
Despite these obstacles, Dr. Ngyedu reaffirmed the hospital’s commitment to improving healthcare services and performance metrics. He announced the initiative to establish a provident fund and a credit union to assist staff financially and enhance governance. The hospital, recognized for its clinical investigations and rehabilitation services, aims to improve infrastructure and foster innovation.
Mr. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, the Minister of Health, commended the hospital for its advancements in various medical specialties. He conveyed the government’s dedication to bettering the conditions for health personnel and implementing a comprehensive health strategy to ensure universal health coverage. With numerous upgrades since its designation as a Teaching Hospital in 2015, the Cape Coast Teaching Hospital aspires to deliver high-quality healthcare and promote medical education and research in Ghana.
The Cape Coast Teaching Hospital is addressing a critical public health issue with high maternal and neonatal mortality rates. Although obstacles persist, including the lack of essential facilities and infrastructure, the management remains dedicated to improving care quality. Government support and ongoing enhancements are essential to achieving the hospital’s vision of excellence in healthcare delivery and education.
Original Source: www.ghanabusinessnews.com
