The Ghana Medical Association (GMA) has been actively involved in organizing community health screening exercises as part of its corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative. These events aim to address the increasing prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as hypertension and diabetes, which have become significant public health concerns in Ghana. One of the latest health screening exercises took place in La, a suburb of the Greater Accra Region.

In recent years, hypertension and diabetes have been on the rise in Ghana. In 2022 alone, over 600 cases of hypertension were recorded, along with nearly 200,000 new diagnoses of diabetes. These alarming statistics have driven the GMA to intensify its efforts to educate the public and provide free health screening services across various communities.

Meanwhile, the Greater Accra Regional Chapter of the GMA organized the health screening in LA. Dr. Andrew Mensah, Chairman of the Greater Accra Division of the GMA, emphasized the importance of regular health check-ups and the need for community outreach initiatives. He explained that the GMA has been conducting these screenings annually, selecting communities that are often underserved or deprived of essential healthcare services.

“We’ve been doing this every year since inception. Every year, we choose one community in the Greater Accra Region. As much as possible, it has to be a community that is a bit deprived or on the outskirts. So, we bring medical services to their doorsteps.”
Dr. Andrew Mensah Chairman of the Greater Accra Division of the GMA

The GMA’s approach is a collaborative one, involving local health authorities, clinics, and pharmaceutical companies. This partnership enables them to provide comprehensive health services to the residents of these communities, many of whom might not have easy access to healthcare otherwise.

Challenges and Solutions: Managing High Turnout

Health screening events like the one in LA often draw large crowds, and the demand for medical services can sometimes exceed the capacity of the doctors on-site. Dr. Mensah highlighted the steps taken to ensure that all participants receive the necessary care, even if it means referring them to higher-level healthcare facilities.

“…You know, sometimes we even refer them to higher authorities. For the conditions which are beyond the scope of what we do on-site, we refer them further to the nearby hospitals through the letter up to, the tertiary hospital. So, sometimes we even continue to see them at higher levels where we work, and their feedback has been very good.”
Dr. Andrew Mensah Chairman of the Greater Accra Division of the GMA

This referral system ensures that individuals with complex medical conditions receive appropriate follow-up care. It also reflects the GMA’s commitment to providing holistic healthcare that goes beyond just the initial screening.

Residents’ Perspectives: Gratitude and Appreciation

The residents of La expressed their gratitude for the health screening initiative. For many of them, the event provided a rare opportunity to receive medical attention and medication without the financial burden that often accompanies healthcare in Ghana.

“They are doing a lot of benefit to us here, because people are having sicknesses even, though they don’t have money to go to hospital. But through this free screening, they are getting their medicine, and the doctors also are treating us very well.”
A Resident of LA Community

Another resident appreciated the fact that medications were provided free of charge during the screening:

“Whenever they say there’s free screening, you have to buy the medicine. But today, medicine, you don’t have to buy. When they refer you too, they will say, go there, go here. You get everything.”
A Resident of LA Community

These testimonials highlight the impact of the GMA’s CSR efforts on the ground. By removing financial barriers to healthcare, the association is making a tangible difference in the lives of community members.

The Way Forward: Promoting Healthier Lifestyles

While health screening exercises are crucial for early detection and treatment of diseases, the GMA is also focusing on preventive measures. The association encourages all Ghanaians to adopt healthier lifestyles to prevent the onset of NCDs such as hypertension and diabetes.

Lifestyle changes, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, and avoiding harmful habits such as smoking, can significantly reduce the risk of developing these chronic conditions. Dr. Mensah and the GMA are committed to raising awareness about the importance of prevention as a key component of overall health. Dr. Mensha asserted; “The Ghana Medical Association is encouraging all Ghanaians to adopt healthier lifestyles to prevent the onset of NCDs.”

The health screening exercise in La is just one example of the Ghana Medical Association’s dedication to improving public health through its CSR initiatives. By providing free medical services to underserved communities, the GMA is not only addressing immediate health needs but also promoting long-term health and wellness across the country.

The success of these initiatives lies in the collaboration between doctors, local health authorities, clinics, and pharmaceutical companies. Through these partnerships, the GMA can mobilize resources and bring healthcare directly to the people who need it most.

As the GMA continues its annual health screening exercises, it remains focused on its mission to create healthier communities and reduce the burden of non-communicable diseases in Ghana.