Ethical Challenges in Ghanaian Healthcare: Insights for Health Professionals in Africa

The following objectives aim to provide healthcare professionals with a comprehensive understanding of the ethical challenges and considerations unique to the Ghanaian and African healthcare context. The casebook will help readers achieve the following learning objectives:

• Develop cultural competence in healthcare ethics and understand the diverse cultural and social contexts related to medical practice in Ghana.
• Enhance skills in ethical decision-making in situations specific to Ghanaian healthcare settings.
• Understand and apply principles of respect for autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, and justice; informed consent, and shared decision-making within the cultural and legal frameworks of Ghanaian society.
• Analyze ethical considerations related to resource allocation, taking into account the challenges and disparities in healthcare resources within the Ghanaian context.
• Explore ethical considerations related to end-of-life care, palliative care, and cultural variations in beliefs and practices regarding death and dying.
• Develop skills in patient advocacy, ensuring that healthcare practitioners actively promote the best interests and rights of their patients.
• Explore the intersection of healthcare ethics and human rights, recognizing and addressing violations within the healthcare context in Africa.
• Examine ethical challenges specific to crises and emergencies, such as epidemics, natural disasters, and other emergencies prevalent in Africa.