The Chief Executive Officer of the National Ambulance Service (NAS), Dr. (Med) George Kojo Owusu, has kicked off a comprehensive five-day operational tour of the Northern Region. The mission aims to bolster emergency medical services (EMS) and solidify strategic partnerships with key regional stakeholders.
The tour commenced with a high-level courtesy call on the Northern Regional Minister, Hon. Ali Adolf John, in Tamale. Welcoming the delegation, the Minister pledged the full backing of the Regional Coordinating Council to enhance the quality of emergency healthcare.
Focus on Infrastructure and Maintenance
Central to the discussions between the Minister and the NAS chief were concrete plans to establish a dedicated Regional Office for the National Ambulance Service. Recognizing the logistical challenges facing the fleet, the meeting also addressed critical support mechanisms for the maintenance and repair of grounded ambulances across the region.
Hon. Ali Adolf John reaffirmed his commitment to the cause, stating that continuous collaboration with NAS is vital to ensuring swift and reliable emergency response for all residents of the Northern Region.
Strengthening the Healthcare Chain
Continuing the first-day itinerary, Dr. Owusu met with the CEO of the Tamale Teaching Hospital (TTH), Dr. Abubakari Bawah. The meeting, characterized by a spirit of long-standing professional friendship, focused on the synergy between pre-hospital care and hospital transitions.
A significant outcome of the dialogue was a proposal for TTH to provide medical oxygen support for ambulance operations, a move expected to significantly improve the stability of patients during transit.
Metropolitan Support and Traditional Honors
The delegation further extended its outreach to the Mayor of the Tamale Metropolitan Assembly, Alhaji Adam Abubakari Takoro. Highlighting the life-saving impact of the Service, the Mayor pledged the Assembly’s support for the construction of a joint Ambulance and Fire Service office to streamline emergency operations within the metropolis.
In a display of Northern hospitality, the Mayor presented Dr. Owusu with a traditional smock, symbolizing the region's appreciation for his leadership.
On-the-Ground Assessments
To wrap up the first day, Dr. Owusu conducted field inspections of several operational hubs, including:
Station Visits: Tamale South, Tamale North, and Sagnarigu Ambulance Stations.
Logistics Hubs: The Regional Dispatch Centre and the Tamale Ambulance Workshop.
Addressing the frontline personnel, the CEO commended the staff and the regional management team for their professionalism and unwavering dedication to duty. As the five-day tour continues, Dr. Owusu is expected to visit more districts to assess the state of emergency care across the broader northern landscape.
