The Acting Director of Pantang Hospital, Dr. Maalug Yennusom, has urged President John Dramani Mahama and the government to prioritize the redesign and modernization of the facility, describing it as vital for delivering world-class psychiatric care in Ghana and beyond.
Speaking at an event to mark the hospital’s 50th anniversary, Dr. Yennusom underscored the urgent need for infrastructure redevelopment, improved staffing, and enhanced security to meet the nation’s growing mental health demands.
Beyond psychiatric care, Pantang Hospital provides general healthcare services to surrounding communities, including specialized units such as an eye clinic, dental clinic, reproductive and child health services, pharmaceutical and diagnostic units, public health, social work, and mortuary services. Despite its broad role, the hospital continues to battle serious challenges.
According to Dr. Yennusom, several buildings are in deplorable condition, while issues such as land encroachment, lack of boundary walls, poor internal road networks, and inadequate access roads from Pantang Junction have worsened the situation.
He further noted that staffing shortages, particularly in mental health nursing, remain critical, with many professionals migrating abroad for better opportunities. The hospital is also struggling with shortages of allied health professionals, including laboratory technicians, X-ray staff, orderlies, security personnel, and other support workers.
While lamenting the challenges, Dr. Yennusom acknowledged steps taken by the government, including the construction of a boundary wall initiated in 2020 to protect hospital lands. However, he revealed that only 30 percent of the project has been completed so far.
He also commended individuals, corporate bodies, and religious organizations for their contributions. Notably, the Church of Pentecost, Hatcho Area, and Apostle William Wachajaco have supported renovation efforts such as painting sections of the hospital and pledging to re-roof the Medical Outpatient Department.
As part of its 50th anniversary celebrations, Pantang Hospital has launched the “Facelift for Better Mental Health” initiative, which focuses on beautifying the compound, greening the environment, and repainting buildings. Management has also appealed to various organizations for additional support to bring this vision to life.
