Ghana is making strides in improving the availability of reproductive, maternal, newborn, child, and adolescent health + nutrition (RMNCAH+N) data, though challenges remain. Despite significant improvements in antenatal care (ANC) coverage, similar progress in skilled delivery and postnatal care has yet to be realized. The district health information management system (DHIMS) has strengthened data collection and management, but gaps in quality, reliability, and timeliness continue to hinder evidence-based decision-making.

Ghana’s growing research community, including academic institutions and international collaborations, is advancing the production of robust local analyses. However, resource limitations, capacity gaps, and fragmented data across sectors hinder the consistency and effectiveness of these efforts.

Recognizing the importance of data for health interventions, efforts are underway to promote information use at all levels of the health system. However, data utilization in policymaking remains inconsistent. The DHIMS2 system has enhanced data collection, from sub-district to national levels, improving the availability and quality of RMNCAH+N data.

Download the Ghana Data Uptake Brief

Impact of Data Utilization in Ghana:

The use of RMNCAH+N data has led to key improvements in evidence-based decision-making, such as:

• Service Coverage Gaps: Analyzing DHIMS2 and Demographic and Health Survey data has helped identify regions with low coverage of ANC 4+ visits, skilled deliveries, and postnatal care, leading to focused interventions, resource allocation, and outreach programs.
• Comprehensive Analysis: Countdown’s in-depth analyses and data triangulation efforts have informed the need for targeted investments in emergency obstetric care and strengthened maternal and child health programs.
• Continuous Improvement: Periodic quality checks of DHIMS2 data have fostered a culture of continuous improvement in the health system, with transparent reporting and more strategic resource allocation.

Testimonials from the Ghana Country Collaboration Team

Dr. Anthony Ofosu, Deputy Director General, Ghana Health Service: “Evidence is the backbone of policymaking, and Countdown analysis ensures our health strategies are data-driven and responsive to community needs. This allows us to ensure that every mother and child receives the care they deserve.”

Dr. Alberta Biritwum Nyarko, Director, Policy Planning Monitoring and Evaluation Division: “Countdown analysis has provided a platform to delve deeper into understanding gaps and opportunities in healthcare. Robust data drives impactful decisions that improve maternal and child health outcomes.”

Dr. Chris Opoku Fofie, Deputy Director, Reproductive and Child Health: “Countdown analysis has been instrumental in highlighting critical areas needing strengthening. With this evidence, we can target interventions more effectively to improve maternal and child health.”

Mrs. Maame Esi Ebiesima Amekudzi, Principal Health Planner: “The insights from Countdown analysis are transforming how we plan and implement health interventions. Evidence-based decisions enhance health service delivery, especially in vulnerable areas.”

Techniques of Data Packaging and Dissemination

Data on RMNCAH+N has been shared with policymakers in various formats to ensure engagement:

• PowerPoint Presentations: Used during dissemination workshops to present findings to national-level health officials and policymakers.
• Posters: Visual summaries highlighting key data trends.
• Reports: Detailed reports shared with stakeholders following meetings.
• Health Sector Working Group Presentations: Findings were presented to promote cross-sector engagement.
• Director’s Meetings: Countdown analyses were discussed to align health strategies with evidence-based findings.

Lessons Learned and Recommendations

Several key lessons emerged from the dissemination efforts:

• Policy Briefs: Alongside manuscripts, policy briefs are vital for conveying health service achievements and challenges.
• Collaboration: Accessing accurate data requires collaboration across departments
• Data Validation: Improved systems and training are essential for accurate data entry and validation.
• Continuum of Care (CoC): Socio-demographic disparities in CoC uptake need to be addressed to reduce neonatal and infant mortality.

By focusing on targeted interventions and improved data use, Ghana is working toward strengthening maternal and newborn health services and achieving its Sustainable Development Goals.

Learn more:

• Information about the Ghana Workshop in 2024
•  Ghana Health Service, Child Health Department