The Society of Private Medical and Dental Practitioners (SPMDP) has pledged to play a crucial role in reversing the brain drain in Ghana's health sector.

At a press conference on Sunday, SPMDP National President, Dr. Andre Kwasi-Kumah, outlined the Society's contributions to transforming brain drain into brain gain.

Noting the detrimental impact of brain drain, Dr. Kwasi-Kumah indicated the importance of creating a conducive environment that encourages medical and dental practitioners to stay in the country and contribute to its healthcare system.

"The movement of healthcare workers has profound implications for both the public and private health sectors in this country. We want the world to know that we are agents of change in helping to address this issue,” he said.

The National President’s speech came on the last day of the SPMDP’s 43rd Annual General Meeting themed, “Health Sector Brain Drain to Brain Gain: The Role of the Private Practitioners”.

The four-day event brought together members of the Society and other sister associations and unions to brainstorm on a sustainable solution for the canker.

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Dr. Kwasi-Kumah highlighted that private practitioners can offer competitive employment opportunities, mentorship, and collaboration with public healthcare institutions to incentivise practitioners to stay in Ghana.

He also indicated the need for investment in modern medical infrastructure and technology, as well as incentive packages, such as tax reductions on medical equipment, to support private healthcare providers.

Dr. Kwasi-Kumah stressed that a multi-dimensional approach, involving public and private sector stakeholders, government, and international partners, is necessary to address the brain drain challenge.

He therefore proposed to the government to engage with training institutions to provide advanced training for medical and dental staff, promoting medical tourism, and encouraging research and innovation.

“Significant efforts have been made in investing in advanced technologies in some of our facilities, including the private medical schools. These facilities are ready to collaborate with the state in the advanced training of medical and dental staff in Ghana.

“Such training would be more cost-effective and socially less burdensome than providing scholarships for further training abroad. The initiative of engaging private sector players in the advanced training of our medical and dental students would improve the retention of health professionals in the country,” he noted.

The National President stressed that the SPMDP is committed to working with all stakeholders to build a stronger, more resilient healthcare system for Ghanaians.

“The SMDP is committed to working with all stakeholders to realize the full potential of brain gain and build a stronger, more resilient healthcare system for all Ghanaians. It will need a concerted effort and the political will to make this a reality. We believe in the goodwill of both the state and the citizens of Ghana, whose health needs we cater for, to support us in making this happen,” he said.