The Central Regional branch of the Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana (PSGH-CR) conducted a health outreach program on Wednesday, April 24th, 2024 for communities within the Abura Asebu Kwamankese District, specifically Old Odonase, New Odonase, and Dunkwa. The program took place at the durbar grounds of New Abura Odonase and was supported by the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), Ankah Soma Asona Royal Foundation, Abura Asebu Kwamankese District Health Directorate, and Panacea Pharmaceuticals.

 

The outreach program boasted a strong presence of healthcare professionals, with 20 pharmacists, 13 Pharmacy students, and 16 prescribers and nurses from the Abura Asebu Kwamankese District Health Directorate contributing their expertise. The PSGH president, Pharm. Dr. Samuel Kow Donkoh also graced the occasion, together with other dignitaries including local chiefs and elders, the District Chief Executive (DCE), and assembly members further.

A wide range of essential health services were offered to the community including free NHIS registration and renewal, general medical and dental consultations, eye and ENT services, breast cancer screening and cervical cancer education, public education on prevalent health conditions and health promotion activities, as well as pharmaceutical care services at no cost to beneficiaries.

 

Impressive Attendance and Focus on NHIS:

 

The program saw a remarkable turnout, with 558 individuals attending the medical screenings, including local leaders, and a staggering 726 individuals benefiting from NHIS registration and renewal services.

The Central Regional Chairperson of PSGH, Pharm. Dr. Esiaba Donkor expressed gratitude to the partnering organizations, chiefs, and the Abura Odonase community for their active participation. However, she voiced concern regarding the growing prevalence of non-communicable diseases and self-medication practices. The chairperson urged the public to prioritize regular check-ups at nearby health facilities for early disease detection and prevention of complications. To address self-medication concerns, she advised against sharing medications, adhering strictly to prescribed dosages, and reporting any adverse reactions to healthcare providers.

PSGH-CR’s Generous Donation and Community Appreciation:

PSGH-CR donated essential medications—including antimalarials, analgesics, antihelmintics, multivitamins, and cough syrups—to the New Odonase CHPS Compound. Nana Essakwa Ampia II, Akwamuhene of the Abura Traditional Council and Odonase, expressed the community’s deep appreciation to all partners for their invaluable contribution.

The outreach program proved to be a resounding success, bringing much-needed healthcare services and raising awareness among residents of Abura Odonase and surrounding communities.