Against a backdrop of industrial strikes and tribal tensions, Bole District Hospital has delivered one of its strongest performances in recent years, posting sharp gains in patient care, maternal health and laboratory standards.
At its annual performance review on February 18, 2026, Medical Superintendent Dr. Wadeyir Jonathan Abesig unveiled the hospital’s 2025 report, describing it as evidence that “accountability and teamwork” can drive results even in a difficult year.
The figures are striking.
Outpatient Department (OPD) attendance rose 6.3 percent, from 40,854 in 2024 to 43,440 in 2025. Of that number, 88 percent of patients accessed care through the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), while 12 percent paid out of pocket. Women accounted for 70 percent of OPD visits — a trend hospital authorities say underscores poor health-seeking behaviour among men.
Emergency cases increased from 1,323 to 1,489. Yet overall deaths dropped from 134 to 130. Men made up 62 percent of recorded mortalities, with management attributing the disparity to late reporting of severe conditions.
Maternal health recorded one of the most dramatic turnarounds. Skilled deliveries climbed from 1,399 to 1,510, while maternal mortality plunged from 346.5 to 64.5 per 100,000 live births. Hospital management linked the improvement to a 2024 operational research study on respectful maternity care and the strict implementation of its recommendations.
Surgical output also improved. The hospital performed 716 surgeries in 2025, including 349 Caesarean sections, fistula repairs, hysterectomies and myomectomies.
In the laboratory unit, the hospital moved from a zero-star rating to a two-star rating under the International Standards for Laboratory Quality — a benchmark achieved by only 23 laboratories nationwide. Dr. Abesig described the feat as a significant milestone for the facility and the Savannah Region.
Disease surveillance data showed declines across major infections. Hepatitis B prevalence dropped from 9.8 percent to 9.2 percent, Hepatitis C from 8.1 percent to 7.2 percent, and HIV from 5.6 percent to 5.0 percent among clinical cases. Rates among blood donors were lower.
But the report flagged serious concerns over voluntary blood donation. Of the 1,614 units transfused in 2025, only 39 were from voluntary donors — none from the immediate Bole community. The hospital relied heavily on organized groups, including the IGP Specialized Operations Unit and nursing trainees, and spent GH¢3,500 on donor mobilization, now under audit review.
Dr. Abesig dismissed claims that the hospital sells blood, clarifying that only laboratory processing fees are charged.
The facility managed more than 1,500 deliveries with fewer than 20 midwives covering antenatal, maternity and gynecology units. Management commended staff for working beyond official hours to sustain services.
Medicine availability remained high at 97 percent throughout the year. However, three months of unpaid NHIS claims remain locked due to administrative challenges, tightening financial pressure on the hospital.
Dr. Abesig expressed gratitude to traditional leaders, assembly members, staff, stakeholders and Bole-based Nkilgi FM for their support. He pledged that 2026 would focus on strengthening systems, improving staff welfare and expanding quality healthcare services for Bole and its surrounding communities.
Source: www.kumasimail.com/Justine B. Abesig
