The Minister for Health, Kwaku Agyeman-Manu explained the need to strengthen midwifery and nursing education in the country to facilitate the enhancement of health services in Ghana.
He added that, to achieve rapid Universal Health Coverage (UHC), best quality and affordable health services, the government must invest in and develop nursing and midwifery.
Hon. Kwaku Agyeman-Manu made these comments during the Seventh Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Fourth Seminar of the Ghana College of Nurses and Midwives (GCNM) held at Gomoa Fetteh in the Central Region.
“Nurses and midwives must be trained and educated to conduct relevant research and translate research findings into practice to promote best practices and improve health outcomes,” he stated.
He also explained that they (nurses and midwives) play a critical role as committed healthcare providers with a broad range of responsibilities and their contributions to the realisation of valuable healthcare had gained global attention.
“It is therefore important for Ghanaian nurses and midwives to go the extra mile to ensure excellent quality in the services they provide and this can be best achieved through research and innovative practices,” he said.
The Rector, Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons, Prof. Richard Adanu, also advised members of the GCNM not to ignore innovation and the use of technology in healthcare.
GCNM must invest in teaching their members and fellows on how to conduct implementation research with respect to Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and improve upon service delivery.
Prof. Lydia Aziato, chairperson for the occasion also advised nurses and midwives to continue learning to align with global trends.
“You must also be innovative and continue to network and collaborate with other nurses and midwives as well as other health professionals to improve upon your skills,” she said.
“Professionals must continue to work together in the healthcare industry, to maintain the common goal of quality management and ethical practice for the benefit of the society they have vowed to serve through their professions.” The President of GCNM, Dr Mrs Abigail Kyei, added.
