In a step towards achieving inclusive healthcare in Ghana, the Traditional Medicine Practice Council (TMPC) held its 6th Induction Ceremony on Wednesday, October 11, 2024 in Accra.
Sixteen young Practitioners completed their training and joined the Council, under the theme: “Unlocking the Potential of Herbal Medicine in the National Insurance Scheme for Inclusive Holistic Care.”
The event, which saw the participation of key health sector officials, was marked by a keynote speech from Deputy Minister for Health, Alexandre Akwasi Acquah.
Mr Acquah emphasised the vital role of herbal medicine, stating “Today, we stand at the threshold of a new era in healthcare, recognising the value and potential of herbal medicine within our national health insurance scheme.”
The deputy Minister for Health highlighted the benefits of integrating herbal practices into the national healthcare system.
He noted that herbal medicine is deeply rooted in Ghana’s cultural heritage and could provide accessible and complementary healthcare options for citizens.
This, he said, would create a more inclusive healthcare landscape where both conventional and herbal medicine co-exists, to serve the well-being of all Ghanaians.
The Deputy Minister acknowledged the challenges in integrating traditional medicine but affirmed the government’s commitment to advancing the field.
Through collaboration with the TMPC and the traditional medicine community, the Ministry of Health aims to ensure the safety, efficacy and quality of herbal treatments.
He further pledged continuous research and development to bolster the traditional medicine sector’s contribution to the healthcare system.
Addressing the new inductees, Mr Acquah praised their dedication to bridging tradition and modernity in healthcare, urging them to dispel myths and demonstrate herbal medicine’s role as a valuable partner in healthcare.
Dr. Michael Kyeremanteng, Registrar of the TMPC, also addressed the gathering, underscoring the importance of collaboration across medical fields.
“By gathering together, we demonstrate our shared commitment to the integration of traditional and modern medicine,” he said, highlighting the roles of inter-professional collaboration, sectoral synergy and community engagement.
Dr. Kyeremanteng celebrated the inductees’ achievements, marking their commitment to excellence in patient care.
He also announced the launch of TMPC’s new digital platform, allowing stakeholders to register, renew licenses and apply for jobs online, enhancing accessibility and professional growth in the field.