Top Hospitals in Ghana by Specialty
Summary: If you're moving to Ghana or recently arrived, it's important to know about the country's top hospitals for specific medical conditions. Here's a primer.
Ghana's healthcare system is a mix of public and private hospitals, with the public sector providing a broad range of services and the private sector often catering to those seeking more specialized or higher quality care. While the country has made significant strides in healthcare delivery, there are still challenges, particularly in rural areas. Expats, international retirees, and digital nomads may find that while Ghana has competent healthcare facilities, the availability of specialized treatments for complex medical conditions can be limited. For certain conditions, such as rare cancers or highly specialized surgeries, patients may choose to travel to their home country or to another country with more advanced medical infrastructure. However, Ghana does have reputable hospitals that are recognized for their expertise in various medical specialties.
Top Hospitals in Ghana for Heart Surgery and Chronic Heart Conditions
The National Cardiothoracic Center, located within the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital in Accra, is renowned for its expertise in heart surgery and the treatment of chronic heart conditions. It is the leading facility in the country for cardiovascular care and offers a range of services from diagnostic to therapeutic procedures. The center is equipped with modern technology and staffed by highly trained cardiologists and cardiothoracic surgeons.
Best Hospitals for Cancer Care in Ghana
The Sweden Ghana Medical Centre (SGMC) in Accra is a private facility known for its comprehensive cancer treatment, including radiotherapy and chemotherapy. It boasts state-of-the-art equipment and a team of experienced oncologists. Additionally, the Radiotherapy Department at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital is also a key public institution for cancer care, offering various treatment options for patients.
Top Hospitals with Neonatal Intensive Care Units
The Greater Accra Regional Hospital, Ridge, has a well-equipped Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) that provides specialized care for premature and critically ill newborns. Another notable facility is the Princess Marie Louise Children's Hospital, also in Accra, which offers dedicated pediatric and neonatal services.
Leading Hospitals for Diabetes Management in Ghana
The Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism Unit at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital is a primary center for diabetes management in Ghana. It offers comprehensive care, including education, management, and treatment of complications associated with diabetes.
Best Hospitals for Kidney Treatment and Care
The Renal Unit of the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital is the foremost center for kidney treatment in Ghana. It provides dialysis and has facilities for kidney transplantation. The unit is staffed by experienced nephrologists and nurses who specialize in renal care.
Top Hospitals in Ghana for Neurology
The Neurology Department at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital is the principal center for neurological services in Ghana. It offers a range of services for conditions such as epilepsy, stroke, and other neurological disorders. The hospital is equipped with the necessary diagnostic and treatment facilities to manage complex neurological conditions.
Best Hospitals for Stroke Treatment
The Stroke Unit at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital is dedicated to providing acute and rehabilitative care for stroke patients. It is one of the few specialized stroke units in the country and is staffed by a multidisciplinary team focused on stroke management and recovery.
Top Hospitals for Orthopedic Surgery
The Orthopedic Training Centre (OTC) in Nsawam is a specialized facility for orthopedic surgeries and rehabilitation. It is known for its work with prosthetics and orthotics. Additionally, the Accra Sports Stadium Clinic is recognized for its orthopedic and sports medicine services.
Leading Hospitals for Pediatric Care
The Paediatric Department at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital is a leading center for pediatric care in Ghana, offering a wide range of services for children's health issues. The hospital's specialists are experienced in treating a variety of pediatric conditions, from common illnesses to more complex diseases.
Specialized Hospitals for Other Conditions
For other specialized treatments, facilities such as the Fertility and Genetic Consult (FGC) in Accra offer reproductive health services, including IVF. The West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP) at the University of Ghana provides advanced research and treatment for infectious diseases. Expats should also be aware of the availability of international clinics, such as the International SOS Clinic in Accra, which caters to the expatriate community and offers a range of healthcare services with international standards.
Expats, international retirees, and digital nomads in Ghana should consider both the availability of specialized medical care and the potential need for medical evacuation insurance, which can provide peace of mind and access to a broader range of healthcare options in case of serious medical conditions.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.