Kumasi, Nov 21, GNA - The second national biennial delegates' conference of the General Nurses Group (GNG) of Ghana opened in Kumasi on Monday with an assurance that government would adequate all categories of health care providers.

Dr (Mrs) Gladys Ashitey, Deputy Minister of Health, who gave the assurance, said the clinical nurse's role in the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) was crucial.

This is because, she said, the launch of the National Health Insurance Scheme sought to bring efficient and affordable health care to the doorsteps of all Ghanaians.

The three-day conference has as its theme: "The National Health Insurance Scheme; The Role of the Clinical Nurse". It was to afford the delegates the opportunity to discuss pertinent issues relating to nursing profession and the NHIS.

The Deputy Health Minister said the role of the clinical nurse to the survival of the NHIS could not be overemphasised, adding that their responsibilities include advocacy, effective communication, education, care provision and decision-making.

"I believe that in partnership with government in this important task of efficient health delivery to all Ghanaians, the Millennium Development Goals and other health initiatives would be achieved as envisaged", she added.

Mr Sampson Kwaku Boafo, Ashanti Regional Minister, urged the nurses to continue to work harder to raise the image of their profession. He also urged them to use their groupings to propagate the benefits and importance of the NHIS.

Dr Kofi Asare, Ashanti Regional Director of Health Services, was happy that the clinical nurses were taking their proper places as the first point of call at the hospitals. He urged them to continue to live up to expectations and be ready to work with other groups in the system to ensure quality health care delivery at all levels.

Dr Asare called on the Group to encourage people to register with the NHIS and pay their premiums so that they can be treated comfortable at the hospitals.

Mrs Mary Ann Sackeyfio, National Chairperson of GNG, said the theme for the conference was a big challenge to nurses because it fell within the five pillars of health care.

She called on the members to always implement new ideas and techniques they acquire from their workshops and seminars they attend to improve upon their performances.