HeFRA Shuts Down Four Private Health Facilities Over Poor Standards

Dr. Winfred Baah, Acting Registrar of the Health Facilities Regulatory Authority (HeFRA), has revealed that four private health facilities have been closed down within the past six weeks due to substandard conditions.

Speaking at the Media General Health Forum held on May 7, 2025, under the theme “State and Future of Health Facilities: Reimagining Healthcare in Ghana”, Dr. Baah emphasized that the closures were part of efforts to enforce regulatory standards across the country.

“In just about six weeks in office, we’ve managed to close down four private health facilities,” he disclosed.

Dr. Baah reiterated HeFRA’s resolve to uphold its mandate and take firm action against any facility — public or private — that fails to meet the required operational standards.

“We’re serious about our mandate. Whether it’s a government facility or private, if the conditions are not right, we won’t hesitate to act,” he stated, adding that even major institutions like Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital could face partial shutdowns if necessary.

While assuring that enforcement will be firm, he also acknowledged the need to act with compassion, particularly in underserved areas.

Regarding the state of CHPS compounds and health centres, Dr. Baah announced that HeFRA has begun the process of licensing these facilities and is working closely with stakeholders to improve their conditions.

“Two weeks ago, we started licensing CHPS compounds and health centres. We’ve also outlined what they need to meet minimum standards. The Director-General of the Ghana Health Service is fully committed to supporting this process,” he added.