Access to HIV/AIDS Drugs Still Challenging — Doctor Cautions Public
The Medical Director at Mercy Women Catholic Hospital, popularly known as Roman Hospital, Dr. Joseph Langa Berko, has revealed that although HIV/AIDS drugs are provided by the government, patients sometimes face delays in accessing them.
Roman Hospital, located in Mankessim, Mfantseman Municipality, Central Region, is recognized as one of the best hospitals in the area.
As part of the World HIV/AIDS Day celebration on Monday, 1st December 2025, the hospital took the opportunity to educate the public about the disease.
Speaking in an interview with Douglas Oyiboh Amponsah, Dr. Berko explained that while they care for HIV/AIDS patients, drug shortages occasionally occur, which is very worrisome.
He added that out of every hundred people, roughly one is living with the disease, referencing national HIV/AIDS statistics.
He further noted that HIV/AIDS is no longer as deadly as it once was, thanks to medications that help patients live normal lives with healthy bodies. However, he highlighted that prostitution has contributed significantly to the rise in HIV/AIDS cases.
Mrs. Sarah Aidoo, Public Health Nurse, also shared that they care for about 150 patients who receive medication from the hospital. They also conduct follow-ups for patients who have stopped taking their medication or cannot be located.
She revealed that, percentage-wise, 18% of the patients under their care are women, while men make up about 6%.
She explained that women are more susceptible to the virus, and sometimes persuading their partners to undergo testing is difficult.
She added that it is the hospital’s duty to maintain strict confidentiality for each patient.
Finally, some nurses in the unit explained that symptoms such as excessive sweating at night, frequent defecation, persistent tiredness even at rest, among others, may indicate HIV/AIDS.
They emphasized that the only way to confirm the infection is to visit a hospital for proper testing.
By Douglas Oyiboh Amponsah.
