The Ghana Association of Certified Registered Anaesthetists (GACRA) has sounded an alarm over a disturbing trend: more than 30% of its members have left Ghana in search of better opportunities abroad in 2023. This significant brain drain includes highly skilled professionals, putting immense pressure on those who remain.
During the fifth Annual General Meeting and Scientific Conference in Bolgatanga, GACRA President Mr. Nwisangra voiced his concerns. The event, themed “Sustaining the practice of anaesthesia in Ghana amidst the brain drain: policy direction and regulation,” underscored the urgency of the situation. Mr Nwisangra cautioned that the trend could severely impact anaesthesia practices in the country.
The exodus is driven by several factors, including stagnant career progression, subpar service conditions, incorrect salary scales, absence of a formal service scheme, and regulatory hurdles. GACRA’s data reveals a startling statistic: only 1200 Certified Registered Anaesthetists (CRAs) serve Ghana’s 32 million people, a ratio of approximately 1 CRA to 26,650 individuals.
According to a report by the Daily Graphic, Mr. Nwisangra highlighted the indispensable role of CRAs in healthcare, responsible for resuscitating critically ill patients, newborns, and those in intensive care. He emphasized, “All emergency situations in our health institutions are centered on the Anaesthetist.”
GACRA has raised concerns about poor working conditions, including inadequate accommodation and equipment. A proposal for better service conditions has been submitted to the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC), but progress has been slow. Mr. Nwisangra urged for expedited negotiations to improve CRAs’ working environment.
Additionally, GACRA pointed out a worrying increase in diseases like cancer, kidney, and liver problems in Ghana, attributing them to pollution from illegal mining, unregulated chemical use in agriculture, and rising substance abuse among the youth. The association called for stricter government measures against illegal mining and hazardous chemical usage.
Dr. Samuel Kwabena Boagye-Boateng, the Upper East Regional Director of the Ghana Health Service, recognized the gravity of the situation. He expressed concern about how the migration of health professionals, including anaesthetists, affects access to quality healthcare, potentially jeopardizing Ghana’s overall health status.
