Govt sets up interim board to operationalise UGMC

Government has set up an interim board to operationalise the University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC) with immediate effect.

The interim board, chaired by Dr Anarfi Asamoa-Baah, has also been tasked to liaise with the Turnkey Contractor to test run the equipment at the facility.

A statement issued on Thursday and signed by a Deputy Minister of Information, Perry Okudzeto, said the interim board has also been tasked to complete the staffing process at the facility by July 2018; as well as ensure the provision of final logistics required for a smooth take-off.

Read also: Govt moves to address University of Ghana Medical Centre impasse

Read also: Open UGMC campaigner granted bail

Government has come under pressure to open and operate the UGMC following the completion and commissioning of phase-one by former President John Mahama in 2016.

The facility has, however, been kept locked following a tussle between the Minister of Health and management of the University of Ghana over the management of the 597-bed capacity facility.

Read also: 597-bed University of Ghana Medical Centre lies idle

The statement also noted that “government as chief stakeholder shares in the public sentiment to operationalise the facility as soon as possible. It is however important to note that the above processes are completed to provide the best care for patients who will be patronising the facility.”

It added that additional funds have been secured to construct the Phase-two of the project which will enable it to function optimally.

“Government wishes to state its commitment to providing quality healthcare to the people of Ghana,” the statement said.