By Yussif Ibrahim

Kumasi, June 29, GNA – Dr. Paa Kwesi Baidoo, the Acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH), has pledged to prioritise staff welfare against a pressing need for substantial investment to address critical equipment deficits at the facility.  

Addressing staff during his maiden durbar held at the hospital in Kumasi, Dr. Baidoo acknowledged the breakdown of key diagnostic and operational equipment including three CT scan machines, an MRI scanner, and sterilization units.   

However, he assured staff of his commitment to explore innovative strategies to motivate personnel and improve working conditions.  

He said as management worked to mobilise resources to address these pressing infrastructure challenges, it would also focus on ensuring that staff feel valued and supported in their work.  

As part of the initial measures, Dr. Baidoo announced a reduction in the amnesty period for the regularisation of certificates acquired by staff who pursued further studies without prior approval from five years to four years.   

He further directed the Human Resource Management Unit to expedite the processing of all pending staff promotions and conversions to ensure that deserving personnel benefited from corresponding remuneration enhancements.  

The durbar, which formed part of a series of stakeholder engagements undertaken by Dr. Baidoo since assuming office, sought to promote transparency, enhance internal communication, and encourage collective problem-solving across departments.  

Key issues discussed included nursing and midwifery concerns, delayed salary processing by the Controller and Accountant General’s Department, and the operationalisation of KATH’s alcohol and drug-free workplace policy.  

A notable announcement during the durbar was the introduction of a home delivery system for medications, targeted at patients with chronic but stable conditions.   

The initiative, in partnership with Ghana Post, aims to reduce the inconvenience and health risks faced by patients who frequently travel long distances to the hospital solely for prescription refills.  

Management also reiterated its commitment to maintaining a safe and professional work environment through the enforcement of its alcohol and drug-free policy.   

Staff were assured that the initiative was intended not to punish those affected but to support them in seeking appropriate treatment.  

The open forum segment of the meeting allowed staff to raise concerns, offer suggestions, and commend the leadership for its open-door approach.   

Management pledged to follow up on all issues raised and assured continuous engagement with staff as part of its efforts to build a collaborative and supportive work culture.  

GNA  

Edited by Benjamin Mensah