GLICO Insurance, a leading name in Ghana’s insurance industry, has donated five suction machines to the Accident and Emergency Unit of the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) in Kumasi.
The company also committed GH₵40,000 to settle medical bills for 20 patients who have been discharged but remain at the hospital due to unpaid debts.
The presentation, made as part of GLICO’s corporate social responsibility and in the spirit of the festive season, aims to alleviate some of the hospital’s challenges.
Lawyer Andrew Achampong-Kyei, Managing Director of GLICO General, emphasized the need to ease the pressure on the unit’s limited suction machines, which are critical in emergency care.
“Following a sensitization drive in September, we visited KATH and learned about the pressing challenges at the Accident and Emergency Unit,” Lawyer Achampong-Kyei explained.
“Today’s donation of suction machines is intended to support the unit in managing its increasing patient load. In the spirit of Christmas, we are also paying the bills of discharged patients who are unable to afford their medical expenses.”
Dr. Yaw Opare Larbi, Deputy Medical Director at KATH, expressed deep appreciation for the donation. Speaking on behalf of the hospital’s medical director, Dr. Larbi highlighted the growing demand for emergency care due to frequent road accidents and the resulting strain on hospital resources.
“The Accident and Emergency Unit continues to experience a surge in cases, which puts significant pressure on both medical staff and equipment,” Dr. Larbi noted. “The donation from GLICO Insurance comes at a crucial time and will help reduce the frequent breakdown of the existing suction machines.”
Dr. Chris Oppong, Head of the Accident and Emergency Unit, also commended GLICO Insurance for their timely intervention. He underscored the importance of suction machines in emergency care, particularly in clearing airways obstructed by blood, a common challenge in trauma cases.
“Most of our emergency cases require the use of suction machines,” Dr. Oppong explained. “This donation will enhance our ability to provide timely care. Additionally, we are thrilled that 20 patients, who had been unable to leave due to unpaid bills, can now go home and celebrate Christmas with their families, thanks to GLICO’s generosity.”
The donation underscores GLICO Insurance’s commitment to supporting healthcare delivery in Ghana and providing relief to individuals in need. With the new suction machines, KATH’s Accident and Emergency Unit is better equipped to handle its growing patient load, while the payment of patient bills ensures that some families can enjoy the festive season without financial burden.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
