The Ashanti Regional Health Director, Dr. Fred Adomako Boateng, has raised concerns over the increasing number of pregnant women dying during childbirth in the region.
Speaking at the 2024 Health Sector Performance Review held under the theme, “Strengthening Primary Health Care Through Networks of Practice (NOP) Towards Universal Health Coverage (UHC): Roles of Stakeholders”, Dr. Adomako Boateng questioned the high maternal mortality rate despite efforts to improve healthcare services.
Providing statistics, he revealed that the Institutional Maternal Mortality Ratio per 100,000 live births has seen a worrying trend: 105 deaths in 2020 (124 actual maternal deaths), 132 deaths in 2021 (168 deaths), 134 deaths in 2022 (181 deaths), 167 deaths in 2023 (217 deaths), and 166 deaths in 2024 (199 deaths), against a target of 125 deaths per 100,000 live births.
“Why should 889 women die while giving life?” he questioned, expressing concern over the persistent rise.
Dr. Adomako Boateng further highlighted disparities in doctor-to-population and nurse-to-population ratios. He stated that while the doctor-to-population ratio had improved from 1:17,169 in 2020 to 1:5,614 in 2024, significant inequities still exist within the region.
Similarly, the nurse-to-population ratio, which was 1:7,169 in 2020, improved to 1:614 in 2024, but remains far from the target of 1:450.
“It is very easy to jump to conclusions and say the ratios are good, but wait a minute – huge inequities exist within the region,” he emphasised.
To encourage excellence, Amansie West, Asante South, and Sekyere South health facilities were recognised as the best-performing health institutions.
The event was chaired by the Otumfuo Hiahene, Nana Professor Oheneba Boachie-Adjei Woahene II, and attended by the Ashanti Regional Minister’s representative, health partners, senior staff, and other dignitaries.