RESPIRATORY THERAPY IN GHANA PAST PRESENT AND FUTURE

RESPIRATORY THERAPY IN GHANA PAST PRESENT AND FUTURE ABSTRACT: Respiratory therapy is an emerging field in Ghana, essential for managing prevalent respiratory diseases such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and infections exacerbated by air pollution. This paper reviews the inception, current state, and prospects of respiratory therapy in Ghana. Respiratory therapy education began in 2015 with the launch of a Bachelor of Science program at the University of Ghana, marking a milestone in sub-Saharan Africa. Since then, a collaborative effort involving the Ghana Association for Respiratory Care (GARC), local institutions, and international partners, has led to significant advancements in professional standards and clinical training. Respiratory therapists now contribute vital skills in critical care, mechanical ventilation, pulmonary function testing, and emergency response across public and private healthcare facilities. Despite this progress, challenges remain, including a shortage of trained professionals, limited resources, and the need for enhanced regulatory frameworks. Continued government support, policy reforms, and international collaborations are essential to advancing respiratory care services in Ghana, ultimately contributing to improved respiratory health and quality of life for all Ghanaians. This study underscores the importance of respiratory therapy in addressing public health challenges and highlights the way forward for the profession’s development. Graduate Student: DOROTHY HONNY ID: 002809239 dhonny1@student.gsu.edu Supervisor: Dr. Douglas Gardenhire dgardenhire@gsu.edu