The Ho Teaching Hospital (HTH) has officially commissioned a Stroke and Private Ward as part of its commitment to enhancing specialised care for stroke patients and improving overall healthcare delivery.
The newly established unit, inaugurated on Wednesday, March 5, is expected to reduce the pressure on the main wards while providing dedicated treatment and rehabilitation services for stroke patients.
Speaking at the ceremony, Dr. Emmanuel Kasu, the Director of Medical Services, highlighted the growing burden of stroke cases in Ghana, noting that stroke was one of the leading complications of cardiovascular diseases and ranked among the top 10 causes of hospital admissions and deaths.
“As we age, the risk of stroke increases. While preventive measures are crucial, cases will still occur, and having a specialized multidisciplinary team to manage stroke patients is essential for better recovery outcomes,” he said.
Dr. Kasu emphasised that the new unit would help decongest the main hospital wards, allowing focused care for stroke patients and improving their chances of early recovery.
“This is a major milestone in stroke care at Ho Teaching Hospital. We appreciate the management team, healthcare professionals, and all stakeholders who contributed to making this specialized unit a reality,” he added.
Prof. Yaw Asante Awuku, Head of the Sub-Business Management Council (BMC), underscored the importance of expert care in stroke management, explaining that poor outcomes often result when specialized facilities and trained professionals are lacking.
“With this new unit, our goal is to see stroke patients walk out of the hospital fully recovered. The facility is equipped with modern stroke care essentials, including specialized adjustable beds to prevent falls and aid in treatment,” he noted.
He added that the unit would operate with a dedicated multidisciplinary team of doctors, physiotherapists, dietitians, and nurses who have undergone specialized training in stroke management.
Additionally, the hospital has set up a private ward for patients who prefer personalized care in a more private environment, ensuring that all patients receive the best possible treatment.
Togbi Kasa III of Ho-Ahoe, who chaired the occasion, urged the hospital staff to ensure proper maintenance of the new facility and to provide excellent care to all patients.
“This unit is a valuable asset to the hospital and the region. Let us use it well and ensure that it serves its purpose effectively,” he advised.
The commissioning ceremony was attended by hospital management, medical professionals, staff of the new unit, and other key stakeholders, all of whom expressed optimism about the positive impact the unit would have on stroke treatment in the region.
By Michael Foli Jackidy, GNA.
