The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has launched the GHS 2024 Excellence Awards to honour the exceptional performance of individual health workers and institutions.

This is the second edition of the awards, designed to retain health professionals in deprived areas and motivate underperforming staff to aspire to future recognition and rewards.

The theme for this year’s awards is “Sustaining Partnerships for Effective and Efficient Healthcare Delivery.”

The Awards form an integral part of the Ghana Health Service’s broader performance management initiative, representing collective appreciation for the tireless efforts of health workers.

Speaking at the event launch in Accra on Monday, July 1, 2024, Dr. Patrick Kuma-Aboagye, Director General of the Ghana Health Service announced that nominations opened on July 1, 2024, and will close on July 23, 2024.

The Award Scheme is based on four key principles: public participation, equity, transparency, and sustainability.

Awards will be given in three categories: Individual Staff Awards, Institutional and Leadership Awards, and Special Awards.

Dr. Kuma-Aboagye emphasized the dedication of many health workers, particularly those in remote areas, who often provide compassionate services under challenging conditions without public acknowledgment.

“While some health workers occasionally exhibit untoward behaviour and are rightfully disciplined, it is crucial to recognize and celebrate those who demonstrate outstanding dedication and innovation in their work,” he said.

He encouraged all health workers and institutions within the GHS to participate in the awards process to be recognized and celebrated for their dedication and commitment to their work.

Araba Kudiabor, Chairperson of the Awards Planning Committee, stated that the GHS Awards Scheme aims to inspire, acknowledge, and reward health workers and institutions for their outstanding contributions to healthcare delivery.

This year, the Service plans to honour 2,372 individuals and institutions at the district level, 280 at the regional level, and 25 at the national level.

The nomination process has been digitalized to streamline and simplify the nomination and evaluation processes.

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