An Investigation on the key Issues and challenges in meeting the Health Objectives in sustainable development goals in Ghana

Abstract

Introduction: The collective global dedication of nations to enhance human welfare was reinforced by a consensus among countries to pursue the objectives outlined in SDG3 and its associated targets. Nonetheless, while Ghana has committed to the SDG agenda, its journey towards fulfilling SDG 3 has been marked by inconsistencies due to ongoing institutional, financial, and obstacles hindering progress toward health-related goals. This study assessed the key issues and challenges influencing the implementation of SDG 3 in Ghana, emphasising practical methods of implementation, participation in discussions between public and private actors, and regional discrepancies in health outcomes.

Methods: A qualitative methodology was used to collect data through 30 comprehensive interviews with academics, nurses, other healthcare practitioners, and local government representatives operating within the Greater Accra Region. Although data were collected in the Greater Accra geographical area, participants described their understanding of how national and regional implementation was progressing. Data were analysed via thematic analysis with NVivo 12 software, in accordance with open-ended data, axial, and selective coding; selected high-salience themes were then further summarised using basic descriptive statistics to increase analytical clarity.

Results: Ghana has established various mechanisms under SDG 3, including a nationwide Health Insurance scheme, community-oriented essential service delivery systems, and initiatives aimed at achieving health coverage and disease monitoring goals. However, these mechanisms are limited by delayed and insufficient financing, health workforce shortages, logistical constraints of implementation, poor enforcement of policies, and poor coordination among implementing institutions. Stakeholder participation was described as wide in structure but disjointed in practice, with centralised decision-making and limited participation of frontline health workers; gaps in health infrastructure, workforce distribution, and access to critical health services at the regional level remain a real issue.

Conclusion: The conclusion draws that In Ghana, the attainment of SDG 3 demands enhanced financing mechanisms, institutional coordination, inclusive stakeholder involvement, and focused interventions to address regional inequities in health system provision.