The Eastern Regional Minister, Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, has called for renewed commitment to preventive healthcare as she launched the Preventive Health Nurses Society, Ghana – Eastern Region.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Minister praised the dedication of preventive health nurses, describing them as “educators, advocates, and change agents” who bridge the gap between communities and the health system.
She stressed that non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as hypertension, diabetes, cancer, and chronic respiratory illnesses remain a major challenge and require early screening, education, and behavioral change at the community level.
“Good health is the foundation of all facets of development. Without it, our goals of social cohesion, educational progress, and economic growth are unattainable,” Hon. Awatey emphasized.
The theme of the launch, “Enhancing Access to the Management of Non-Communicable Diseases through Community-Based Wellness Clinics and Advocacy Initiative: The Role of the Preventive Health Nurse,” highlighted the critical role nurses play in promoting wellness and preventive care across Ghana.
The Regional Minister pledged close collaboration with the Regional Health Directorate, traditional leaders, and civil society to ensure that wellness clinics are adequately resourced and accessible, especially for the vulnerable populations.
The launch also served as a platform to unveil the Eastern Regional Scientific Conference of the Society, which will further advance research, innovation, and advocacy in preventive healthcare.
Hon. Awatey commended the vision of the Preventive Health Nurses Society and urged all stakeholders to work together towards a healthier Eastern Region where prevention, not just treatment, becomes the priority.
Explaining the initiative further, Mrs Dorcas Asiedu Asamoah, Eastern Regional Chairperson for Preventive Health Nurses Society Ghana, noted that preventive health nurses, often seen in brown uniforms and responsible for child immunization and community health outreach, work closely with public health nurses in white uniforms, who serve as their supervisors. Together, they are championing the establishment of wellness clinics in all hospitals, polyclinics, and district health facilities.
She added that wellness clinics are now being set up nationwide with government support, providing spaces where individuals can walk in for free health screening, counseling, and preventive care. Community health nurses will also continue home visits and organize local screenings to encourage early detection of diseases.
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com/Akosua Asabea
