He said the introduction of the scheme by government was laudable, and would enable people, especially the poor, to have access to health care.

Dr Osei-Bonsu who was speaking at an end-of-year get-together of the staff of the hospital, at Akim Oda, said only 19,069 people out of an estimated population of 192,270 people in the Birim South District registered for the scheme.

He, therefore, urged the health professionals to educate the people on the benefits to be derived from joining the scheme.

On the achievement of the hospital for last year, he said three junior staff quarters, a resident doctor and eye specialist doctor's bungalows were renovated as well as the procurement of a new generator among others.

Dr Osei-Bonsu commended the staff for working hard and urged them to keep it up, to ensure good quality health care delivery.

He appealed to the district assembly and philanthropists to assist the hospital with a building to serve as an emergency unit or casualty unit.

Some of the staff, including Ms Agnes Koomson of the out-patient department, who distinguished themselves, were presented with various prizes.

Nana Okyere Boamah, a board member of the hospital, who chaired the function, commended the nurses for not joining the exodus wagon in search of greener pastures and assured them that their efforts would be rewarded.