Dr. Cardinal Newton, Chief Executive Officer of Sunyani Teaching Hospital, has appealed for urgent support to construct staff accommodation, citing the facility’s growing workforce and impending medical school as key drivers.
The hospital, which has already expanded its infrastructure and services, currently lacks sufficient housing for health professionals. Mr. Newton warned that without proper accommodation, potential staff may be deterred from joining the hospital, undermining its transformation plans.
Amid the appeal, the hospital received a donation of 20 three‑seater steel chairs from the Suncity Club UK, valued at about GH¢25,000. The donation, intended to ease some of the hospital’s immediate needs, underscores the broader call for resources.
Mr. Newton highlighted that the hospital’s patient numbers have surged from roughly 90,000 per month in 2023 to between 120,000 and 130,000 today, with projections of 160,000 by the end of 2026. This growth, driven by increased public confidence, has placed pressure on existing facilities, including seating for patients and relatives.
The CEO noted that the government has committed to building a dialysis centre, an endoscopy centre and an oncology centre, but stressed that staff welfare and housing must receive equal attention. He urged the government and private partners to accelerate plans for the medical school and accompanying infrastructure.
Mr. Newton also called on corporate organisations and philanthropists to contribute equipment and other essential resources to improve healthcare delivery and reduce the hospital’s financial burden.
The Suncity Club UK, led by President Solomon Boateng, chose the teaching hospital for its contribution, citing its service to patients beyond Sunyani and the Bono Region. The club’s donation is seen as a timely relief, with Chief Executive Officer of Suncity Radio Ransford Antwi expressing optimism that it will inspire further support for the region’s development needs.
As the hospital prepares for its next phase, the need for staff accommodation remains a critical hurdle. Stakeholders are encouraged to explore public‑private partnerships or build‑operate‑transfer arrangements to address this challenge swiftly.
