1 week ago
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The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has launched its Digital Health Programme in order to transform healthcare in the country.
Speaking at the launch, GHS Director-General, Dr Patrick Kuma Aboagye, described the programmee as a “pivotal moment” for healthcare in Ghana, aimed at using technology to create an efficient and accessible system for all Ghanaians.
According to Dr Aboagye, digital health was essential in today’s world and had the power to change the healthcare landscape by increasing efficiency, expanding access, and improving health outcomes. “This is more than a programme; it’s a commitment to better health for every Ghanaian,” he emphasised.
He said the Digital Health Programme had already introduced various digital tools and systems, including the District Health Information Management System (DHIMS, Ghana Integrated Logistics Management Information System (GhiLMIS), and Light wave Health Information Management System (LHIMS).
These systems, he noted, had helped GHS collect and analyse data in real time, making it easier to manage patient records, monitor medical supplies, and respond to health needs quickly.
“One of the most impactful tools, LHIMS, has transformed patient care by giving healthcare providers immediate access to electronic medical records (EMRs), which helps reduce delays and improve continuity of care,” he stated.
Additionally, he indicated that GhiLMIS enhances efficiency in managing medications and medical supplies, helping facilities avoid shortages and waste.
He mentioned that GHS had also enhanced disease monitoring with the Surveillance Outbreak Response Management and Analysis System (SORMAS), allowing the health service to detect and respond to outbreaks early.
This tool is essential in protecting public health and preventing the spread of diseases.
“To support healthcare workers, GHS has launched a digital learning platform and added cybersecurity training to its Continuous Professional Development (CPD) programme, ensuring that patient data remains secure and healthcare professionals stay informed of best practices,” he stated.
Dr Aboagye further highlighted a key partnership with Broadspectrum Limited to improve internet connectivity at 745 health facilities across the country, adding that it would help expand digital access, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
However, he said, GHS acknowledges certain challenges, such as gaps in digital literacy, inconsistent power supply, and limited technical support.
Moreover, Dr Aboagye called on partners and stakeholders to support efforts to overcome these obstacles, stressing that collaboration is essential.
The Director-General of the Cyber Security Authority (CSA), Dr Albert Antwi-Boasiako, expressed support for the initiative, calling it a “visionary step” in transforming healthcare through digital technology.
Dr Antwi-Boasiako shed light on the importance of cybersecurity in healthcare, noting that while digital health brings efficiency and accessibility, it also introduces risks that must be managed carefully.
“The role of cybersecurity is critical in protecting patient data and ensuring a resilient healthcare system, and CSA has been proactive in collaborating with GHS to secure digital health systems,” he said.
Representing World Health Organisation (WHO), Dr Frank Lule expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, emphasising the impact of digital health on modern healthcare systems.
She praised GHS for leading the digital push, aligning with the recommendations made by WHO member states during the recent 73rd WHO Regional Committee for Africa in Botswana.
“These recommendations encourage countries to adopt digital solutions as part of their efforts to achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC),” he added.
BY AGNES OPOKU SARPONG
