Proposed Cancellation of Certificate and Diploma Nurses in Ghana Raises Concerns for Healthcare
The Ghana Medical Association (GMA) has sparked controversy with its proposal to cancel certificate and diploma nursing programs, advocating for all nursing education to be elevated to the degree level. The move has elicited mixed reactions from nurses, health professionals, and the general public.
GMA’s Rationale
According to Prof. Ernest Yorke, Vice President of the GMA, the current nursing education system in Ghana is “bizarre” and needs to be reformed. He pointed out that auxiliary nurses constitute nearly 60% of the nursing workforce, while degree-prepared nurses are in short supply.
“We think that the majority of nurses must be degree-prepared,” Yorke said. “We have to cancel certificate programs and diploma programs and train nurses and midwives at the degree level.”
Yorke drew comparisons with Nigeria, where a first degree is mandatory for registered nurses and midwives. He argued that Ghana has the necessary resources and educational institutions to implement similar standards.
Industry Reactions
The proposed cancellation of certificate and diploma nursing programs has been met with mixed reactions from the nursing community. Some nurses support the move, believing it will lead to a more skilled and professional workforce.
“I think it’s a good idea because it will improve the quality of nursing care in Ghana,” said Adwoa Mensah, a registered nurse. “Nurses need to have a strong foundation in science and medicine, which can only be achieved through a university education.”
However, others oppose the cancellation, arguing it will create a shortage of nurses and limit access to healthcare for rural communities.
“Certificate and diploma nurses are essential in providing healthcare to marginalized populations,” said Kwame Osei, a community health nurse. “Canceling these programs would leave many communities without qualified nurses.”
Public Concerns
The general public is also concerned about the potential impact of the proposed cancellation on the healthcare system. Many fear that a shortage of nurses will result in longer wait times for medical care and reduced access to essential services.
“I’m worried that if you cancel these programs, there won’t be enough nurses to care for patients,” said Yaw Acheampong, a resident of Kumasi. “We need to find a way to train more nurses, not fewer.”
Next Steps
The GMA’s proposal to cancel certificate and diploma nursing programs will require further discussion and consultation with stakeholders. The Ministry of Health and the Ghana Health Service will need to evaluate the potential impact on the healthcare system and the nursing workforce before making a decision.
Vox-Pop
Questions:
- What are your thoughts on the GMA’s proposal to cancel certificate and diploma nursing programs?
- Do you believe it will improve the quality of nursing care in Ghana?
- What are your concerns about the potential impact on healthcare access and the nursing workforce?
Responses:
- Mercy Agyemang, Nurse: “I support the proposal because it will raise the standards of nursing in Ghana. Nurses need to be well-educated and have a strong foundation in science and medicine.”
- Kwame Asamoah, Health Administrator: “I’m concerned about the potential shortage of nurses if these programs are canceled. We need to find a way to train more nurses, not fewer.”
- Yaa Adu, Patient: “I’m worried that if you cancel these programs, there won’t be enough nurses to care for patients. We need to make sure that we have a qualified and accessible healthcare workforce.”
Godwin Owusu Frimpong
