Ghana’s increasing cases of cardiovascular diseases are putting significant pressure on the country’s healthcare system, as the number of specialists available to manage heart-related conditions remains far below the growing demand.
The limited number of cardiologists and cardiac surgeons is affecting timely access to specialised care, forcing some patients to seek treatment outside the country due to limited expertise, equipment, and treatment options.
At the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH), for instance, only a small number of paediatric heart specialists are available to handle cases referred from across the country.
Similar challenges exist at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital and other health facilities where specialised cardiac services are limited.
Health professionals are therefore appealing to the government and stakeholders to invest in training more cardiologists and cardiac surgeons, while also improving access to essential medicines, technology, and equipment needed for effective treatment.
A Paediatric Cardiologist Specialist at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Dr Christiana Adu Takyi, says the rising number of referrals has placed a heavy workload on the few specialists available.
She explained that many children with complex heart conditions require advanced procedures that are currently unavailable locally, leading to referrals to countries such as India for treatment.
“The number of cases we receive keeps increasing, but the specialists and resources available are limited. Some children need procedures that we cannot provide here, so they have to be referred outside the country,” Dr. Adu Takyi stated.
The Directorate of Child Health at KATH organised an annual paediatric conference on June 18, 2026, at KNUST, aimed at improving early detection, diagnosis, and management of heart conditions among children. Experts believe early identification of cardiac problems can significantly improve survival and treatment outcomes.
Theme for the conference: “Early Diagnosis, Timely Referral: Improving Paediatric Cardiac Outcomes in Ghana.”
Dr. Samuel Blag Ngual, senior lecturer at the School of Medicine and Dentistry at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, also raised concerns about the financial burden of cardiac treatment.
He noted that the high cost of managing heart conditions prevents many patients from accessing continuous care, contributing to preventable complications and deaths.
“Cardiac treatment is expensive, and many patients struggle to sustain their care. We need stronger support systems to ensure that people do not lose their lives because they cannot afford treatment,” Dr. Ngual said.
He is calling on stakeholders to consider expanding coverage for cardiac services under the National Health Insurance Scheme or establishing a dedicated fund to support patients with heart-related conditions.
Experts believe that strengthening Ghana’s cardiac healthcare system through specialist training, improved infrastructure, and financial support will be critical in addressing the rising burden of heart diseases in the country.
By Enock Baffoe
