Ashanti Region steps up maternal care as referrals account for 92% of KATH deaths

The Ashanti Region of Ghana is intensifying its efforts to enhance maternal care following data revealing that 92% of maternal deaths at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) in 2025 originated from referrals. Dr. Fred Adomako-Boateng, the Ashanti Regional Health Director, emphasized the necessity of focusing on strengthening maternal care at points of referral rather than solely on KATH.

Ghana recorded 235 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births in 2025, with the Ashanti Region accounting for 196 deaths per 100,000 live births. Dr. Adomako-Boateng highlighted an improvement in the region's maternal mortality figures this year compared to the national trend, stating that Ashanti, previously leading, has seen a reduction in numbers.

Of the total maternal deaths in the Ashanti Region, 15% involved referrals from outside the region, while 85% were from within. Dr. Adomako-Boateng also announced that the Ashanti Regional Health Directorate, with UNICEF's support, will enhance clinical mentorship for peripheral health facilities to improve the quality of care and reduce unnecessary referrals to KATH.

Additionally, the region is implementing a virtual labor ward to provide remote support to health professionals at peripheral facilities for managing labor and emergency cases. This initiative aims to ensure that only cases requiring specialized care are transferred to KATH, thereby improving the overall management of maternal cases across the region.