Global Perspectives in Plastic Surgery: View of Plastic Surgeons From Ghana

Ghana is a low- and middle-income country, and providing universal health coverage for its population of more than 30 million is a significant challenge. The predominantly rural population lacks access to essential reconstructive surgery services. In urban areas, where reconstructive services are available, they are not affordable for most patients.

This article identified the challenges faced by plastic surgeons in Ghana and proposed potential solutions.

Ghana's National Health Insurance Scheme, although a significant step toward universal health coverage, does not cover the cost of most essential reconstructive procedures. This places a significant financial burden on patients and their families, often leading to delayed or foregone treatments. The number of plastic surgeons in Ghana is small and is disproportionately located in Accra and Kumasi, 2 of the biggest cities. The lack of financial compensation models to encourage plastic surgeons to provide reconstructive services in rural settings means that most plastic surgeons will continue to be based in urban areas, where opportunities to engage in financially rewarding cosmetic procedures exist. The infrastructural and logistical challenges also deter plastic surgeons from leaving urban centers, as most regional and district hospitals are not equipped for reconstructive services.

Challenges affecting essential reconstructive services in Ghana include the uneven distribution of plastic surgeons and the lack of effective financial compensation models. Potential solutions include the need for a more equitable distribution of plastic surgeons, the development of financial compensation models for rural service, and the enhancement of regional hospital infrastructure.