The Defence Minister-designate, Dr Edward Omane Boamah, has outlined comprehensive plans to ease the burden on the 37 Military Hospital and enhance healthcare delivery for military personnel and their families. 

His proposals, presented during his appearance before Parliament’s Appointments Committee on January 28, aim to address the long-standing issues of overcrowding and resource constraints at the facility.

Dr Omane Boamah highlighted the need for a specialised healthcare facility exclusively for soldiers and their dependents, noting that the 37 Military Hospital often faces pressure due to competition from civilians seeking medical services. 

He emphasised that providing a dedicated space for military healthcare would ensure uninterrupted access to quality services for personnel and their families.

As part of his vision, the Defence Minister-designate proposed re-equipping the 37 Military Hospital with modern tools and technology. 

He also recommended adopting innovative procurement mechanisms to reduce the cost of medical supplies and guarantee a steady flow of essential drugs and consumables. 

This, he said, would ensure that soldiers and their families receive timely and effective care without financial inefficiencies.

Dr Omane Boamah further underscored the importance of decentralising military healthcare by operationalising the Afari Military Hospital and establishing a new facility in Accra. 

These initiatives, he explained, would alleviate the strain on the 37 Military Hospital while improving access to healthcare for military personnel across different regions.

“Plans are underway to construct a new facility in Accra specifically for soldiers and their families, as civilians are currently over-competing with them at the 37 Military Hospital,” he stated. 

“When this facility is completed, combined with the operationalisation of Afari Military Hospital, it will significantly reduce the pressure on 37 Military Hospital.

Additionally, with innovative mechanisms for procuring drugs, we can reduce costs and ensure consistent supply, addressing the critical needs of our military community.”