Accommodation issues are delaying doctors in rural areas — GMA President

The President of the Ghana Medical Association, Dr Ernest Yorke, has raised concerns about the difficult living conditions facing doctors posted to rural communities.

He noted that the lack of decent accommodation continues to be one of the biggest hurdles preventing many newly posted medical officers from starting work on time.

Speaking in an interview, Dr Yorke explained that the situation has become a recurring challenge for both doctors and district health managers.

Some doctors accept their postings but are unable to assume duty because they have no suitable place to stay. Others are forced to search for their own housing and only hope for reimbursement, which is not always guaranteed.

He pointed out that this ongoing struggle creates delays that ultimately affect the delivery of healthcare in underserved areas.

When asked whether housing is typically arranged ahead of postings, he said the situation varies across the country.

“If you are lucky, you may be provided with accommodation. Some districts have housing earmarked for doctors, but this is not the case everywhere,” he said.

Dr Yorke believes that finding a lasting solution to these accommodation barriers is essential if Ghana hopes to attract and retain medical professionals in remote communities.

He called for stronger investment in social amenities and the wider health sector, particularly in deprived areas where health workers already face difficult working conditions.

His remarks come at a time when reports indicate that several newly posted doctors have declined their assignments to the Upper West Region.