The Enchi Government Hospital has recorded 110 cases of motor-related accidents within the first half of 2025. This figure represents a notable increase in road traffic incidents compared to previous periods, raising concerns about road safety in the municipality.
Hospital records indicate that the majority of these cases involve motorcycle crashes, which continue to be the leading cause of trauma-related admissions. The surge in such cases has placed additional pressure on the hospital’s emergency and surgical units, as clinicians work to manage severe injuries ranging from fractures and head trauma to internal bleeding.
The Medical Superintendent of the facility, Dr. Emmanuel Nkumson, explained that the trend highlights the urgent need for intensified road safety education and enforcement. He emphasized that the frequency of motorcycle accidents is not only a health burden but also a socioeconomic challenge, as many victims are young and in their productive years.
Another major challenge identified by the hospital is the low utilization of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) among accident victims. Although many of the patients possess valid NHIS cards, they often do not present them when seeking care. This results in out-of-pocket payments, creating additional financial stress on individuals and families already coping with the consequences of accidents.
Dr. Nkumson further noted that inadequate use of health insurance weakens the hospital’s capacity to sustain quality emergency services. He called for renewed public sensitization on the importance of actively using NHIS coverage, especially in cases of emergency, to reduce the financial barriers to care and ensure timely treatment for accident victims.
These issues were discussed during a recent town hall meeting organized by the municipality to give account of health and social challenges facing residents. The hospital administration reaffirmed its commitment to delivering quality healthcare but stressed the need for stronger community engagement, improved road safety measures, and active use of health insurance policies to safeguard lives.
