The Princess Marie Louise Children's Hospital in Accra has marked its 100th anniversary with a renewed call for greater investment in child healthcare.

A Century-Long Commitment to Child Health Established in 1926, the hospital has provided specialized healthcare to children for over a century. Its founder, Princess Marie Louise, was deeply moved by the high rate of child mortality in the then Gold Coast and dedicated herself to improving the health outcomes of Ghanaian children.

'As we celebrate this remarkable milestone, we acknowledge the remarkable progress we have made, but we also recognize the significant challenges that still lie ahead,' said Head of Clinical Services, Dr. Margaret Neizer.

Challenges Remain Despite the hospital's achievements, it continues to face significant challenges. The hospital struggles with long waiting times, limited specialized services, and increasing patient numbers. Dr. Neizer emphasized the need for strengthening research and innovation to ensure healthcare systems keep pace with evolving disease patterns and technological advances.

Future Priorities The hospital's priorities for the future include expanding the health workforce, promoting research, accelerating digital transformation, and strengthening partnerships among government, private institutions, and development organizations. Dr. Neizer also raised concerns about the hospital's ageing infrastructure, stating that many of its buildings are original temporary structures that are now under pressure due to increasing demand for specialized pediatric services.

Security and Sustainable Financing The hospital also highlighted the importance of security, noting recent child abduction incidents in parts of the country. Deputy Chief of Staff, Nana Oye Bampoe Addo, underscored the need for strengthening security systems across hospitals to safeguard patients and maintain public confidence in the healthcare system. The hospital is also establishing an Endowment Fund to mobilize support from government, corporate organizations, and individual donors.

Key Facts

  • 100 years of service: The Princess Marie Louise Children's Hospital has been providing specialized healthcare to children for over a century.
  • 22.8 deaths per 1,000 live births: Ghana continues to record a high neonatal mortality rate.
  • GH¢100 million: The hospital is calling for an investment of GH¢100 million to improve its services and infrastructure.
  • 50% increase in patient numbers: The hospital has experienced a 50% increase in patient numbers over the past decade.
  • 500 children treated annually: The hospital treats over 500 children annually for sickle cell disease and HIV.

A Catalyst for Change As the hospital begins its second century of service, stakeholders believe the focus must shift from commemorating its rich history to investing in the infrastructure, workforce, and resources needed to ensure every child in Ghana has access to quality healthcare. The centenary should serve as a catalyst for renewed national commitment to child health and the long-term strengthening of pediatric healthcare across the country.