Inadequate and unavailable accommodation is a major reason why doctors in Ghana are hesitant to accept postings in remote areas, according to research and news reports. Many doctors expect the government or their employers to provide or subsidize housing, but the reality is often inadequate, distant, or nonexistent.
This, coupled with other factors like a lack of social amenities and career opportunities in rural areas, further discourages doctors from accepting postings to remote areas. It is therefore a welcome relief that Ghana Rubber Estates Limited ( GREL) has handed over a new two unit two bedroom accommodation facility for doctors in Nsuaem.
The Medical Superintendent of the Nsuaem Government Hospital, Dr. Beatrice Omidiji, in appreciating the gesture , described it as a major relief for the facility.
The residential building, fully funded and constructed by Ghana Rubber Estate Limited (GREL), addresses a longstanding challenge of inadequate housing for medical staff at the hospital. This development is expected to significantly boost healthcare delivery in the Nsuaem enclave.
“Getting accommodation was a major difficulty, so we reached out to GREL, and they responded positively. The result is the beautiful edifice we see today,” Dr. Omidiji stated. “What’s even more exciting is that staff are moving in right after the handing over. That tells you how urgent the need was.”
Dr. Omidiji, while expressing gratitude, also appealed for further support, specifically for nurses’ accommodation, citing the growing number of nursing staff at the facility.
“We have received an increasing number of nurses, but accommodation remains a major hurdle. Providing flats for them would go a long way in balancing the nurse-to-patient ratio, especially since our hospital is the only upgraded health facility serving this large catchment area,” she noted.
In addition to the housing project, GREL donated a 20,000-litre community water facility to the Apemanim community. The total value of both projects amounts to GHS 800,000.
Corporate Affairs Manager of GREL, Mr. Perry Acheampong, emphasized the company’s commitment to community development.
“At GREL, we see the community as an integral part of our operations. Giving back is not just a corporate responsibility — it’s part of our core mandate,” he said. Mr. Acheampong also called on the hospital authorities and community members to maintain the facilities to ensure their longevity and continued benefit to the public.
