The Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) Network on Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) is calling on government and health authorities to strengthen social protection and healthcare services for people affected by neglected tropical diseases.
The Network says persons affected by diseases including leprosy, lymphatic filariasis and skin-related NTDs continue to face stigma, discrimination, disability and loss of livelihoods, in addition to the health challenges associated with the diseases.
Speaking on behalf of the Network, Mr. Milton Aberinga said government must ensure that eligible persons affected by NTDs are included in the Livelihood Empowerment Against Poverty (LEAP) programme.
He also called for qualified affected persons to be supported to obtain free National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) coverage to remove financial barriers to healthcare.
The Network further wants the Ministry of Health to provide adequate resources for regular community-wide screening for skin-related NTDs.
Mr. Aberinga said early detection remains critical because it allows for timely treatment, prevents complications and disabilities and improves the quality of life of affected persons.
The CSOs are also calling on the Ghana Health Service to establish and operationalise weekly NTD clinics at appropriate primary healthcare facilities.
According to the Network, the clinics should provide screening, diagnosis, treatment, follow-up, counselling, referral and health education, particularly for people in underserved communities.
Mr. Aberinga also urged District Assemblies to ensure that eligible persons affected by NTDs, particularly those living with disabilities and socio-economic vulnerabilities, benefit from the Disability Fund.
The Network believes the fight against NTDs must extend beyond medical treatment to address poverty, stigma, discrimination and social exclusion.
It is therefore calling for persons affected by NTDs to be directly involved in the planning, implementation and monitoring of programmes designed to address their needs.
The Network also wants traditional and religious leaders, the media, educators and community leaders to intensify public education to dispel misconceptions and reduce stigma against persons affected by NTDs.
The CSOs say eliminating NTDs will require coordinated action from the health sector, social protection agencies, local government authorities, communities and development partners.
They insist that addressing the social and economic vulnerabilities of affected persons is essential to achieving a Ghana free from the burden of neglected tropical diseases.
Source: Bolgafmonline.com|102.7 MHz| Bolgatanga
