An Assessment Of The Implementation Of Sdg3 In Elderly Health Care Delivery In Ghana

ABSTRACT

The elderly go through diverse challenges during their course of life. One of such difficulties affects the health of the elderly and the outcomes of elderly health delivery services. There have been many mechanisms used to enhance elderly health care considering the fact that there has been an increase in the aged population over the years. This study sought to assess the implementation of SDG3 in elderly health care delivery in Ghana. To obtain this objective, qualitative research approach was used to collect primary and secondary data for analysis and discussion. Primary data were obtained using a semi-structured interview guide for officials from GHS, KBTH and GAEC Hospital whiles secondary data sources were from reports, books, journal articles, policy documents, official documents, research papers, internet sources and articles. The SDGs constitute a framework to ensure sustainable development in all spheres of the state, including health. Geriatric care seeks to ensure health care for the elderly in Ghana. Interventions have also been made to ensure the realisation of SDG3 in the elderly health services delivery through UHC, and reduction of NCDs. However, some challenges have been encountered in the implementation of SDG3 in the elderly health care delivery. These include constraints on human resources, challenges associated with NCDs treatment and prevention, shortfalls of NHIS and inadequate funding. So, to curtail these challenges and improve on the others, it is suggested that funds should be set aside for health care delivery for the elderly. GHS and its stakeholders must also implement the framework to ensure easy access for elderly patients with NCDs, and the training needs for health care of the elderly must be reviewed.