West Africa Health Community advocates AI departments for healthcare in Ghana

The President of the Health Community of West Africa Association (HCOWAA), Sihong Jiang, has called for the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into healthcare systems in the country.

The integration of AI in healthcare delivery, she stated, would enhance diagnostics, treatment and patient management, at this year's West Africa Artificial Intelligence Healthcare Summit and Conference in Accra last Friday.

Ms Sihong observed that the West African region and for that matter Ghana, faced significant challenges such as a shortage of critical healthcare professionals and senior healthcare personnel.

In that regard, she said, incorporating AI into healthcare systems in Ghana and in the sub-region could be a game-changer and offer unique opportunities to address the shortage in specialised and senior healthcare staff.

The conference, which was organised by HCOWAA, was on the theme: “Promoting Regional Integration of Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare to Enhance Service Delivery”.

It was aimed at highlighting HCOWAA's vision for AI integration in health care, promoting partnerships with international manufacturers and strengthening collaborations with key stakeholders.

Call to action

The President of HCOWAA said incorporating AI into healthcare systems would also improve efficiency and provide personalised care on a larger scale.

"In developed countries and developing economies like China, the situation is different, and that is why we are here to support Ghana and work together towards mutual development.

These shortages, coupled with increasing demand for quality healthcare, highlight the urgency of innovative solutions," she said.

Ms Sihong further emphasised that the theme of the event was not merely a statement, but a call to action — an invitation to drive a healthcare revolution in West Africa through the power of technology, innovation and collaboration.

"As we embark on this journey together, I want to emphasise that HCOWAA remains committed to collaboration. We welcome all stakeholders, governments, hospitals, private health facilities, and international partners to join hands with us in building a healthcare system that is not only innovative but inclusive and sustainable,” she said.

"Let us seize this opportunity to lead the way in integrating AI into healthcare, setting a precedent for the rest of the world. Together, we can bridge the gaps, overcome the challenges, and create a healthier, more equitable future for all," she added.

Leveraging technology

The President of the Ghana Medical Association, Dr Frank Serebour, noted that the introduction of AI departments in hospitals could significantly address some of the many challenges facing Ghana's healthcare system.

He acknowledged that while some hospitals in the country have already begun incorporating AI, it is time to fully integrate technology into healthcare delivery nationwide to ensure accessibility and improve quality.

"One of our key objectives is to advocate equitable, accessible and quality healthcare. The integration of AI aligns perfectly with this goal, as it enhances both accessibility and quality. So this is something that sits very well with us, as an association," he said.

He further explained, "Across the country, many hospitals are already leveraging AI. For example, patients now visit hospitals without needing physical folders. With AI, regardless of your location, you can access the same quality care from top doctors, whether they are at Korle Bu, the University of Ghana Medical Centre, or elsewhere. This is a very positive development."

While supporting the idea, Dr Serebour urged the government to prioritise the development of AI infrastructure to make this vision a reality.

Cooperation

For his part, the President of the Ghana Association of Chinese Society, Tang Hong, assured medical cooperation between China and Ghana.

He emphasised the importance of facilitating public-private partnerships, organising training programmes for healthcare professionals and staff, as well as supporting local businesses in the production of medical supplies, pharmaceuticals and equipment.

"By bridging the gap between the private sector and public health goals, we firmly believe that building a resilient healthcare system across West Africa is no more a dream.

Let us move forward with a shared commitment to improving health outcomes, advancing medical knowledge and building a brighter, healthier future for both of our nations," he stated.