The Ministry of Health has rejected claims that Ghana is training medical doctors only to abandon them after graduation, insisting that established recruitment procedures are in place to facilitate their transition into permanent employment.
In a press release issued on November 5, 2026, the Ministry said public discussions about delays in recruiting newly qualified doctors and dentists must be based on an accurate understanding of the processes governing their training and employment.
“Such discussions must be grounded in facts and a proper understanding of the processes involved,” it stated.
The Ministry explained that the recruitment and posting of house officers were jointly undertaken by the Medical and Dental Council (MDC) and the Ministry of Health.
It disclosed that three batches of medical doctors had commenced housemanship at different times in 2026, depending on their graduation dates and completion of the required processes.
Housemanship is a mandatory two-year practical training programme, with the first year undertaken at secondary and tertiary healthcare facilities and the second providing exposure to district-level healthcare delivery.
The Ministry clarified that financial clearance for the entire two-year programme is obtained before trainees begin their first year, eliminating the need for separate clearance to progress into the second year.
Regarding permanent employment, it said an established procedure involving the Ministry of Finance allows doctors and dentists to transition from their second year of housemanship into permanent employment.
“This approach is intended to ensure a smooth transition from mandatory service into permanent employment without unnecessary delays,” the statement said.
The Ministry disclosed that it was currently recruiting the 36th Batch of Medical Officers and Dentists and preparing to commence recruitment for the 37th Batch, whose members had recently obtained permanent registration.
It also highlighted a recruitment approach that prioritises identifying actual vacancies before declaring positions for qualified doctors and dentists to apply.
According to the Ministry, the process is intended to promote transparency, accountability and equitable distribution of medical personnel based on staffing needs.
Reaffirming its commitment, the Ministry said it recognised that training doctors came with the responsibility of creating opportunities for them to serve the country, particularly in underserved and deprived communities.
“The Ministry will continue to work with the Ministry of Finance, the Medical and Dental Council, its relevant agencies and other stakeholders to strengthen these processes,” it added.
