Dr Nana Ofori Adomako, a cardiovascular health researcher at Johns Hopkins University Centre for Cardiovascular and Chronic Care, is underscoring the need for a trust-centred and accessible healthcare system for hypertension in Ghana.
His admonition comes on the heels of the economic challenges posed by hypertension in Ghana and the essential transformation of healthcare delivery needed to address these issues.
Hypertension, often dubbed the “silent killer,” stands as one of Ghana’s most urgent public health crises. This chronic condition is a leading contributor to heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and premature death.
Beyond its clinical implications, the economic ramifications of uncontrolled hypertension are profound, placing significant burdens on individuals, families, and the nation.
The Hidden Economic Costs
Hypertension is a primary cause of premature mortality in Ghana, yet it often goes underdiagnosed and undertreated. While the health risks are widely recognised, the economic burden is frequently ignored.
Uncontrolled blood pressure results in absences from work, diminished productivity, and early retirement due to disability.
Dr Adomako points out that individuals face recurring medication costs and emergency care expenses, often paid out of pocket due to a lack of insurance.
“At the national level, healthcare costs soar as more resources are spent on treating complications, such as strokes and kidney failures, rather than on prevention and early intervention. Families endure the brunt of these medical expenses, exacerbating financial strain amid other socio-economic challenges. The lack of affordable and accessible care is a central issue that hinders effective management of hypertension,” he noted.
Barriers to Care: Access, Trust, and Influence of Religious Beliefs
Dr Adomako emphasises that limited access to care and widespread distrust in the healthcare system are two significant barriers contributing to the hypertension care crisis in Ghana.
He says access is not merely about the geographical proximity of clinics, as it encompasses affordability, convenience, and the stigma associated with seeking treatment.
“For many Ghanaians, high costs hinder their ability to seek care, while fear of judgment prevents them from pursuing treatment. Moreover, a lack of trust complicates the situation. Past negative experiences lead many patients to feel skeptical of healthcare providers, resulting in poor adherence to treatment plans,” he said.
He further states that when patients do not trust their doctors or feel unheard, they disengage from the healthcare process, particularly for chronic illnesses requiring continuous care.
“In addition to limited access to care and widespread distrust in the healthcare system, religious beliefs significantly impact hypertension treatment in Ghana. Many individuals may turn to faith-based healing practices or rely on spiritual leaders rather than seeking medical attention. This reliance on religious explanations for health issues often leads to a denial of symptoms or a reluctance to accept medical diagnoses,” he noted.
As healthcare providers recommend treatments or lifestyle changes that conflict with patients’ religious beliefs, individuals may reject the advice or abandon prescribed therapies in favour of faith-based remedies.
Adomako notes that this spiritual lens can create an additional barrier, complicating efforts to engage patients in necessary treatment plans for chronic conditions like hypertension.
“This intertwining of spiritual and medical beliefs fosters an environment where individuals can be resistant to seeking conventional medical care, ultimately exacerbating their health issues. Consequently, establishing a trusting relationship between healthcare providers and patients, while being respectful of religious beliefs, is essential for improving adherence to treatment and overall health outcomes in Ghanaian communities,” he said.
Promise of Pharmacy-Led Care
Pharmacists may hold the key to addressing these issues. Given their widespread presence in communities, particularly in rural areas, pharmacists can serve as vital healthcare providers.
Adomako notes that pharmacy-led care models can bridge the access gap by offering blood pressure screenings, medication counselling, and follow-up care.
“With the right training and support, pharmacists can deliver hypertension management that is both accessible and affordable. Innovative solutions, such as those from mPharma Pharmaceuticals Limited, illustrate the potential of transforming local pharmacies into primary care hubs. By integrating pharmacies into the healthcare system, we can enhance access while creating more reliable ongoing care touchpoints,” he said.
Moving Beyond Episodic Care
Currently, hypertension care in Ghana functions primarily on a reactive basis, with patients receiving treatment only when symptoms arise or complications develop.
The health expert advocates for a shift toward proactive care that prioritises continuous management and prevention.
“Community-based, pharmacy-led care models can provide regular check-ups, ongoing education, and easy access to necessary medications, thereby preventing complications related to uncontrolled hypertension,” he noted.
A Healthier Population, A Stronger Economy
By improving hypertension management and prevention, Ghana can enhance productivity and reduce disability-related work absences.
This shift could lead to fewer hospital admissions for complications, saving millions in public health expenses and ultimately unlocking the nation’s economic potential.
A Call to Action
Policy reform, increased investment in prevention, and a pivot toward trust-centred care are crucial in this moment as hypertension represents both a health crisis and an economic concern.
“Action is needed now, or the costs of inaction will greatly escalate,” Dr Adomako noted.
Conclusion
The solution to Ghana’s hypertension crisis lies in fostering a proactive, accessible, and trusted healthcare system.
By empowering community pharmacies, leveraging technology, and nurturing long-term patient relationships, Ghana can significantly alleviate the economic burden of hypertension, ensuring a healthier population and a robust national economy for future generations.
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