The Association of Medicine Counter Assistant-Ghana has voiced its dissatisfaction with the service conditions faced by its members, particularly those employed by private pharmacy owners.

President of the association, Constant Reuben Abbey, highlighted the failure of some employers to meet financial obligations, including pension contributions, and their resistance to providing opportunities for counter assistants to enhance their skills.

Speaking at the association’s annual general meeting in Kumasi, Abbey expressed frustration over the inadequate pay and poor working conditions experienced by many members.

“An employer will look at an MCA and say I am paying you, 500 Ghana cedis. It is an insult. But since most of the time the MCAs are desperate, they accept the money like that. We urge the employers to pay us what is due us. If the MCA doesn’t have the right state of mind, they won’t be able to work effectively,” he stated.

The annual general meeting of the Association of Medicine Counter Assistants-Ghana gathered members from across the country to discuss ways to improve their welfare and promote unity within the sector. This year’s theme focused on championing the welfare of association members.

There are over 17,000 medicine counter assistants in Ghana, providing services at various pharmacies and licensed drug stores. Despite their significant numbers, many continue to face challenging working conditions.

In response to these issues, Emmanuel Kyeremateng, Deputy Chief Pharmacist at the Ashanti Regional Health Directorate, suggested extending the medicine counter assistantship program to provide trainees with more comprehensive skills and knowledge.

“It should be increased to at least two years, so that what they possess will carry weight. This will broaden the scope of knowledge they have. For six months, there is little that can be achieved. Leadership of the association must look at extending the program,” he recommended.