Closure of the only Health Care Facility in Kotingli in the Tamale Metropolis in the Northern region has resulted in several deaths while increasing maternal mortality rates.The Health Facility which serves the over 1,000 residents of the four farming communities of Kotingli, Tua, Baliga, and Dakpemyili has been shut down for over five years.The situation has compelled residents to trek several hours on bicycles to the Tamale metropolis to access health care; a situation which many women in the community describe as a luxury for the privileged few whose husbands can afford a bicycle.According to Joy News’ Northern regional correspondent, Hashmin Mohammed, who visited the community, residents who cannot afford to trek to Tamale, resort to self-medication.Some residents Hashmin Mohammed interacted with, bemoaned the situation particularly for pregnant women who have to be transported on bicycles on the undulating roads for health care.Corroborating the report, the Assembly man of the area, Briama Matthew told Joy News several pregnant women and children had died in their attempt to access health care.The residents have therefore called on the government to as a matter of urgency, re-open the health facility to reduce the deaths and improve health care for the residents.