Kwabena Mintah Akandoh has cautioned medical doctors against rejecting postings to underserved districts, warning that those who refuse risk losing their placement opportunities.
He raised concern over the continued reluctance of some doctors to accept rural assignments, noting that the trend is worsening disparities in access to healthcare across the country. According to the Minister, nearly half of Ghana’s doctors are concentrated in the Greater Accra Region, with the figure rising to about 70 percent when the Ashanti Region is included, leaving many districts critically understaffed.
Mr. Akandoh disclosed that while only 12 doctors accepted postings to eight underserved regions in 2024, recent efforts have improved uptake, with about 100 doctors now taking up such assignments.
He acknowledged that some doctors have legitimate concerns but stressed that these should not override the need to provide care in deprived areas. He emphasized that the government remains committed to ensuring equitable healthcare delivery and will enforce stricter measures to address the imbalance.
The Minister warned that doctors who decline postings will forfeit their slots, which will be reassigned to others willing to serve in underserved communities.