The Telecel Ghana Foundation has conducted a free antenatal outreach under its Rural Ultrasound Scan initiative at the Gomoa Obuasi Model Health Centre, providing ultrasound scans and essential maternal health services to 154 pregnant women in the Gomoa Central District of the Central Region.
The bimonthly outreach, targeted at rural and remote populations, aims to support early detection of pregnancy-related risks in communities where access to diagnostic imaging is limited or unavailable.
During the blood-level testing and ultrasound scans, women identified as requiring additional medical attention were referred to the antenatal unit of the health centre for treatment to ensure they receive the necessary specialsed care and follow-up.
“Ultrasound scan costs are high for pregnant women in this district since they are conducted by private labs in the bigger towns. So, it is laudable that Telecel Foundation has organised today’s screening here. All women identified with risk factors will be closely monitored throughout their pregnancies,” said Eunice Kortey, the physician assistant in charge of the Gomoa Obuasi Model Health Centre.
In addition to diagnostics, health workers provided group education sessions on maternal nutrition, iron supplementation and the importance of consistent antenatal attendance. Women who were not already enrolled in antenatal care were registered on-site and linked to routine services at the health centre.
Sekina Hammond, a pregnant resident of Gomoa Obuasi, after receiving screening, said, “I am excited to know my unborn baby’s current state and to learn about the best foods to eat for my blood level and my baby. Also, they registered me at the antenatal clinic and told me when to come for my next visit.”
Rita Rockson, Head of Foundation, Sustainability and External Communications, said the bimonthly Rural Ultrasound outreach forms part of the Foundation’s Connected Health pillar and aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 3 on Good Health and Well-being, which emphasises improving maternal health by increasing access to care for expectant women to reduce their mortality rate.
“This programme is about preventing avoidable pregnancy complications through early detection, education and continuity of care. It directly supports the global goal of reducing maternal mortality, especially in underserved communities,” Ms. Rockson said.
As part of the initiative, maternal health workers educate expectant mothers on prenatal care, nutrition and the importance of regular antenatal visits, empowering them to take charge of their health.
Telecel Ghana also presented care packages containing essential newborn items to support the women as they prepare for childbirth and begin their motherhood journey.
