The Sandema Hospital, a vital healthcare facility serving the Builsa North Municipality and surrounding areas, has fallen into a state of disrepair, prompting urgent calls for renovation. Member of Parliament James Agalga described the hospital’s condition as “sick,” highlighting the detrimental impact on patients seeking care in a dilapidated environment. Years of neglect have taken their toll on the 95-year-old structure, leaving it riddled with cracks, peeling paint, broken windows, and exposed electrical wiring. The hospital’s infrastructure, which has not undergone significant renovation since its upgrade to a district hospital in 1992, is now a serious concern for both patients and staff.
The deplorable state of the Sandema Hospital extends beyond mere cosmetic issues. Leaking roofs, obsolete medical equipment, and creaking floors further contribute to the unsafe and inadequate environment. This situation compromises the quality of care provided and poses risks to the health and safety of patients and medical professionals alike. The hospital’s history, beginning as a small facility in 1930 and gradually expanding its services over the decades, underscores the importance of its role in the community. However, this history also reveals a long-standing lack of investment in maintaining and upgrading the hospital’s infrastructure.
Recognizing the urgent need for action, MP Agalga allocated funds from his share of the MPs’ Common Fund to refurbish the hospital’s pediatric ward. This renovation, costing over GH¢377,000, addressed some of the most pressing issues in the ward, providing a temporary reprieve for young patients and their families. However, this refurbishment represents only a small step towards addressing the hospital’s overall needs. The remaining wards and departments continue to suffer from the same neglect, highlighting the need for a comprehensive renovation plan.
MP Agalga’s efforts extend beyond the pediatric ward renovation. He has engaged in discussions with the Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, to secure support for a larger-scale refurbishment of the entire hospital. A technical team has already inspected the facility, indicating a commitment to addressing the situation. Agalga assured constituents and hospital management that a significant facelift is on the horizon. This collaboration between the MP, the Ministry of Health, and local authorities offers a glimmer of hope for the much-needed revitalization of the Sandema Hospital.
The community’s appreciation for MP Agalga’s initiative was evident during the handover ceremony for the refurbished pediatric ward. The Municipal Chief Executive and the Municipal Director of the Ghana Health Service both praised the MP’s commitment to improving healthcare in the region. They also emphasized the importance of maintaining the renovated ward and ensuring its continued functionality. This collaborative spirit between local leaders and healthcare professionals underscores the shared responsibility for preserving the hospital’s resources.
The plight of the Sandema Hospital serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by healthcare facilities in underserved areas. The lack of adequate funding and maintenance often leads to a gradual decline in infrastructure, impacting the quality of care and discouraging healthcare professionals. The ongoing efforts to revitalize the Sandema Hospital offer a beacon of hope, demonstrating the positive impact of community advocacy and government intervention. The hope is that these efforts will not only restore the hospital to its former glory but also serve as a model for improving healthcare access in other regions facing similar challenges.
