St. Elizabeth Hospital has initiated a major fundraising effort. The hospital aims to expand its emergency ward significantly. It also plans to replace outdated medical equipment.
The current emergency ward has only seven beds. This is too small for the number of patients. The expansion will increase capacity to 30 beds. This will help the hospital better handle emergencies. The hospital established in 1956 has grown to 110 beds. It now serves as a key referral center for the Ahafo Region and four other regions.
This expansion is crucial for Ghana's healthcare system. St. Elizabeth Hospital is a vital link in regional healthcare. It covers the Western, Bono, Western North, and parts of the Ashanti regions. The hospital has struggled with overcrowding for years. Officials report that severe space limitations force them to send critical patients elsewhere. They cannot treat patients on floors due to a lack of beds. This situation highlights a national challenge in healthcare infrastructure.
Stephen Nsiah Kwaku, Head of the Emergency Unit, spoke at the fundraising event on May 30. He stated that staff have been working with old equipment. The limited seven-bed space causes discomfort. He emphasized that upgrades will transform regional healthcare. The unit needs basic items like nebulizing machines and BP monitors.
Traditional leaders support the fundraising. Baffour Adjei Fofie of the Hwediem Traditional Council praised hospital staff. He noted the new 30-bed facility will help many people. He urged companies and individuals to donate. Early donations came from the Hwediem Traditional Council and Angel Group of Companies. The Asutifi South District Assembly also contributed. The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) is another early donor.
Hospital staff organized a health walk. This event was for Emergency Medicine Day. Its theme was "Every Second Counts." The walk aimed to raise awareness locally. It encouraged public support for the project. The Hospital Manager, Sister Georgina Lawrencia Quayson, said growth requires expansion. She wants to end the "no-bed syndrome." She thanked donors and asked for more support. Nurse Manager Gladys Bediako shared sad stories of patients being treated on the floor. She said referring patients far away risks lives. Expansion is the best solution for public health.
The hospital is appealing for global support. Donations can be sent to GCB Bank PLC, Hwediem Branch. The account name is St. Elizabeth Catholic Hospital. The account number is 7061130000538.