Accra Psychiatric Hospital Launches Satellite Clinics to Tackle Rising Substance Abuse
The Accra Psychiatric Hospital has announced the establishment of new satellite clinics in the Korle Klottey Municipality, aimed at supporting individuals struggling with addiction. This initiative comes in response to the alarming increase in substance abuse cases across Ghana.
Hospital management emphasized that substance abuse, particularly among the youth, undermines productivity and contributes significantly to both social and public health challenges. They expressed deep concern over the growing number of people affected by drug addiction, warning that this trend poses a serious threat to national development.
Speaking to Citi News during a community screening event in Accra, Dr. Kwadwo Marfo Obeng highlighted the importance of decentralizing addiction treatment services. The screening was part of a week-long health initiative organized in collaboration with local authorities.
“Community leaders have made it clear that many individuals need help long before they reach the point of hospitalization,” Dr. Obeng stated. “If care is only accessible at hospitals, many will not seek the support they need. Regular outreach in local communities is critical to supporting recovery.”
Dr. Linda Baafi, Municipal Director of Health Services, also addressed the challenges of managing substance abuse in urban settings. She stressed the need for stronger collaboration among healthcare stakeholders to address the issue effectively in densely populated areas.
“Substance abuse is widespread across the municipality,” Dr. Baafi noted. “Expanding initiatives like the satellite clinics will improve service coverage. We must build more partnerships to ensure we reach as many affected individuals as possible.”
The satellite clinics are expected to offer earlier intervention and improved accessibility, ultimately enhancing the country’s capacity to combat substance abuse and its far-reaching impacts.
