Health Director for Oti Region, Dr. Osei Kuffour Affreh, has voiced deep concern about the precarious state of healthcare services in the region, primarily due to a shortage of healthcare professionals.

He emphasized that the absence of doctors, physician assistants, midwives, as well as technical and support staff, along with various systemic challenges, are significant obstacles impeding healthcare delivery in Oti.

Dr. Affreh also pointed out the lack of regional medical storage facilities and insufficient residential accommodations for staff as additional factors impacting service provision.

These remarks were made during the 2023 mid-year performance review of the Oti Regional Health Directorate, held in Worawora, Biakoye District, under the theme: "Achieving Universal Health Coverage; The Role of the Health Worker."

Dr. Affreh expressed heartfelt appreciation to healthcare partners, particularly the Korea Foundation for International Health Care (KOFIH), for their continuous support over the years. He highlighted KOFIH's contributions, including funding for the construction of two Community-based and Health Planning Services (CHPS) Compounds, renovations, and various infrastructure projects that have enhanced healthcare services in the region.

Additionally, the region received a new Toyota Hilux vehicle and essential office equipment and supplies from the World Health Organization (WHO). WHO's support extended to surveillance activities and various training programs conducted during the review period.

Dr. Affreh also acknowledged the invaluable assistance from other partners, including USAID Q4H, GAVI, World Vision, Marie Stopes, Impact Malaria, ANESVAD, and UNICEF.

Nana Okoforobour Baffour Kwame Asare II, the Paramount Chief of the Tapa Traditional Council, spoke with the Ghana News Agency (GNA) and praised the commendable efforts of the Oti Regional Health Directorate. He, however, appealed to the Regional Coordinating Council and the government to provide necessary assistance to healthcare professionals grappling with the challenges they face.