An article by A.B. Kafui Kanyi

On April 2nd, the Ghana News Agency reported that Ato Hammond, a 56-year-old Ghanaian entrepreneur, had been struggling with serious heart issues for quite some time. Despite medical recommendations for surgical intervention, doctors suggested seeking care overseas due to limited resources locally. However, the financial burden and emotional strain of being away from his loved ones were significant concerns.
Then, he learned about a recent breakthrough in cardiac procedures conducted successfully at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital. Following this life-changing operation performed in Accra, Mr. Hammond has become a vocal supporter of enhancing healthcare facilities within the country.

His narrative highlights the increasing demand for Ghana to enhance its healthcare infrastructure so as to become a leading hub for medical tourism. This would not only retain patients such as Ato but also draw individuals from various parts of Africa and other continents.

A Market Poised for Expansion

successive administrations have discussed turning Ghana into a center for medical tourism; however, progress has been sluggish. By 2025, the worldwide medical tourism sector is projected to reach $55.83 billion, based on data from Statista. Nations like Canada, Singapore, Japan, Spain, the United Kingdom, Dubai, and India lead this market. Within Africa, South Africa takes the forefront, followed closely by Morocco, Tunisia, and Egypt which draw many European visitors. While Kenya makes significant advances within Eastern Africa, Western African countries lag behind in this trend.

The Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital has started attracting international patients for cardiac procedures; however, significant improvements are necessary. A large number of Ghanaians continue to seek medical treatment abroad, resulting in substantial losses of foreign currency for the country.

Ghana’s Unique Advantages

Ghana’s advantageous position close to both the Prime Meridian and the Equator enhances its connectivity with Europe, the Americas, Africa, and the Middle East. As a key regional air transport center, Kotoka International Airport facilitates convenient travel for international visitors, including medical tourists.

Aside from being accessible, Ghana boasts a mild climate that promotes faster recuperation after surgery. The nation’s proficiency in traditional herbal remedies and health spas adds to its allure for individuals looking into complementary therapies. Its vibrant cultural legacy, tranquil vistas, and tourist attractions contribute significantly to its overall attractiveness.

Oh, the capital of the Volta Region, Ho, is rapidly becoming a hub for wellness tourism. Renowned for its clean air and peaceful atmosphere, it offers an ideal backdrop for recuperation and tranquility.

An Appeal for Improved Healthcare

Professor Agyemang Badu Akosa, who previously served as the Director-General of the Ghana Health Service, has consistently championed the enhancement of the nation’s medical infrastructure.

He has raised concerns about why high-ranking public officials and politicians opt for medical treatments overseas instead of using Ghana’s own skilled physicians. He feels that putting resources into improving Ghana’s healthcare facilities could enhance services for typical citizens and position Ghana as a leading destination for medical tourists.

“Maintaining good health comes with significant costs, and our representatives face this reality deeply whenever they travel overseas. So why not establish our own healthcare framework? Suppose the President needed treatment at UGMC or Korle-Bu; would there really be no skilled physicians available to care for them? Absolutely, there are!” he contends.

His views align with the wider demand for the nation to develop an independent healthcare framework capable of catering to both residents and international patients.

Hohoe Teaching Hospital – An Emerging Destination for Medical Tourism Locales

The Ho Teaching Hospital (HTH) aims to become a leading choice for medical tourists, providing specialized healthcare services within an inviting setting. Situated in one of Ghana’s calmest areas, HTH combines contemporary medical treatment with natural therapeutic aspects.

The hospital’s verdant environs, clean ambiance, and serene mood foster a perfect milieu for recuperation and health enhancement. Individuals reap advantages from a calming escape far removed from urban density and contamination. This placid backdrop serves as an aid for after-operative attention, psychological equilibrium, and therapeutic rejuvenation.

The hospital has enlarged its facilities through the addition of a new wing, a center dedicated to family health, and an extensive pharmacy area. These upgrades improve its capacity to deliver top-tier medical care and guarantee a comfortable experience for patients along with their relatives.

The HTH Annex emerges as a restorative haven. Nestled amidst well-tended gardens and majestic trees, it merges contemporary medical care with the curative advantages of nature. Both patients and guests have the opportunity to unwind in outdoor areas, appreciate scenic views, and undergo a calming recuperation journey. The abundance of verdant landscapes further fosters comprehensive wellbeing, rendering it an appealing choice for those traveling from afar who desire top-tier health services along with spiritual revitalization.

Moreover, the hospital has established itself as a frontrunner in specialized healthcare, attracting patients from nearby nations like Togo, Benin, and Nigeria. As its credibility as a dependable medical facility increases, fewer Ghanians find it necessary to seek treatment overseas.

With continued investment in cutting-edge medical technology, international accreditation, and specialised training for healthcare professionals, Ho Teaching Hospital is on its way to becoming a centre of excellence for medical tourism in Ghana.

Economic and Healthcare Benefits

A flourishing medical tourism industry could enhance Ghana’s economy through increased foreign currency inflows and job creation in sectors such as healthcare, hospitality, transportation, and travel. Greater investments in facilities, advanced medical devices, and specialized education would upgrade health services for both residents and global patients.

A number of Ghanaian medical professionals based overseas might also be motivated to come back to their homeland, thereby contributing their skills which could enhance the nation’s healthcare sector.

The Government’s Part in the Vision

The administration has committed to broadening the scope of tourism to encompass medical travel. As part of their most recent budget, they have vowed to finalize and put into action the Medical Tourism Policy and Strategy. Their initiatives involve transforming Korle-Bu into a contemporary specialized facility and improving Ho Teaching Hospital’s capabilities to deliver sophisticated healthcare services.

Hohoe Teaching Hospital is already drawing patients from neighboring countries such as Togo, Benin, and Nigeria. Recently, it has undergone expansion with new amenities, featuring a family healthcare center, a comprehensive pharmacy complex, and a tranquil wing specifically created for patient recuperation.

The Road Ahead

To transform Ghana into a leading destination for medical tourism, hospitals will need to achieve internationally recognized accreditations to establish credibility. It would be beneficial for the government to implement regulations that position Ghana as a preferred option for patients seeking treatment abroad. Establishing a specific division within the Ministry of Health to manage these initiatives could prove effective. Additionally, setting up a specialized regulatory body with statutory authority might help guide and supervise the expansion of this industry.

Through targeted investments in infrastructure, brand development, and high-quality healthcare services, Ghana could emerge as a premier hub for medical tourism within Africa. Providing cost-effective yet top-tier treatments would not only encourage local residents to seek care domestically but also draw international patients seeking medical attention.

GNA

BAS

02 April 2025

The author serves as the Medical Tourism Coordinator at HoTeaching.