UE/R: SOCO PROJECT FACILITATORS URGED TO WORK HARD FOR THE SUCCESS OF THE PROJECT – DCE NABDAM
BY: VALERIUS ATUIMAH
In a remarkable effort to address essential healthcare needs in underserved regions of Ghana, the Widows and Orphans Movement (WOM), in partnership with the KGL Foundation and Ghana Health Service, recently conducted a comprehensive community health screening program focused on ear, nose, and throat (ENT) health alongside screenings for hypertension, hepatitis B, typhoid, and malaria.
Leading the medical aspect of the exercise was Dr. Eunice Rabiatu Abdulai, an ENT surgeon based at the Institutional Case Division of the Ghana Health Service Headquarters in Accra. Dr. Abdulai highlighted the limited availability of ENT surgeons in Ghana, with only six in the entire Ghana Health Service, concentrated largely in Greater Accra and Ashanti regions. This screening initiative was particularly significant as it brought crucial health services directly to the doorsteps of people in regions lacking specialized ENT care, reducing barriers caused by distance and costs. The team also included ENT nurses and support staff, with some trained personnel conducting eye exams as part of the comprehensive health check.
Ms. Elizabeth Anafo, Head of Programs at WOM, explained that the movement’s role is to support widows and young female entrepreneurs, particularly by addressing mental health and overall well-being. Recognizing that many women and children in these communities rarely visit hospitals until symptoms become severe, this screening program was designed for early detection and prevention. It targeted about 100 community members but remained open to more, offering free screening for ENT, blood pressure, hepatitis B, and typhoid. The program focused not only on diagnosis but also on educating participants on preventive measures to avoid contracting these diseases. When problems were detected, medical professionals provided on-the-spot interventions such as ear cleaning and referred more complex cases to hospitals for further treatment.
This marked the second such screening event by WOM in collaboration with KGL Foundation, following one held in Bongo community in 2023. The initiative reflects a broader commitment to make healthcare accessible to vulnerable populations who face financial and logistical challenges to accessing medical care. Ms. Elizabeth emphasized the importance of not waiting until sickness becomes advanced before seeking help and highlighted the goal of creating awareness around health maintenance and early intervention. Additionally, the organizers underscored the need for donors and government partners to support access to medication and better hospital funding to complement these community efforts.
Samari Esther, a beneficiary of the screening program shared her gratitude, noting how the free services provided relief and medical attention she otherwise could not afford. Such testimonials underscore the meaningful impact of bringing these services directly to communities.
This community health screening initiative exemplifies innovative collaboration between governmental health services, nonprofit movements, and foundations to extend specialized care and health education to those most in need. By overcoming barriers of distance, cost, and availability of specialists, it fosters healthier communities empowered with the knowledge and resources necessary for better health outcomes. WOM and its partners continue to call for support to expand such vital programs, ensuring more communities across Ghana receive the healthcare they deserve.
