The Ghana Health Service (GHS) says it is taking steps to improve healthcare accessibility for persons with disabilities by strengthening disability-friendly services in hospitals across the country.

At a recent meeting with Regional Directors on 13th February 2025, the leadership of GHS emphasised the need to establish facilities that cater to people with disabilities. Following this, discussions were held with the National Disability Council and the Ghana Federation of Disability Organisations to develop a more inclusive healthcare system. Key areas of focus include enhancing rehabilitation services, integrating disability-friendly infrastructure, and ensuring equal access to quality healthcare for persons with disabilities.

Speaking on the initiative, a representative of the GHS stated, “Section 33 of the Disability Act mandates healthcare institutions to provide necessary modifications, priority access, and sign language interpreters where needed. Our goal is to ensure that persons with disabilities receive the same standard of care as everyone else.”

Regional Directors have been tasked with strengthening existing structures to fully implement disability-friendly services. They are also expected to ensure that Social Welfare Offices in all Regional and District Hospitals become operational immediately.

Additionally, the Peer Review checklist will be updated to include inclusivity indicators, while regional and district disability focal persons will undergo reorientation to improve their understanding of their roles.

These directives will be closely monitored and factored into performance appraisals to ensure compliance. The GHS is committed to making healthcare more inclusive and accessible for all citizens, regardless of physical ability.