Decentralization in the Ghana Health Service: A Study of the Upper West Region

Abstract

This study analysed the extent of decentralization in the Ghana Health Service (GHS) and the effect it has on the management of the Service. A retrospective descriptive study method was employed in the study. Questionnaires and interviews were used to obtain views from health managers at the various levels in the GHS. The study used frequencies, percentages, tables and graphs to analyze the results. The study revealed a limited application of decentralization in the GHS. The execution of key management functions were adversely affected by the level of decentralization in the study area. For decentralization in the GHS to yield beneficial outcome or be successful, there is the need for some reforms or preconditions. Without these reforms, the status quo may just persist.

Keywords: Decentralization, Ghana Health Service, Upper West Region