Obstetric capacity strengthening in Ghana results in wide geographic distribution and retention of certified Obstetrician/Gynaecologists: A quantitative analysis

Objectives To determine the cumulative retention of Obstetricians/Gynaecologists (Ob/Gyns) since the inception of the Ghana postgraduate Ob/Gyn programmes, to determine the demographic and practice characteristics of all Ob/Gyns who have been trained, and to compare the geographic distribution of Ob/Gyns throughout Ghana between 2010, when a previous study was conducted, and the current practice locations of all graduates in 2017. Design Cross‐sectional, quantitative investigation. Setting Fieldwork for this study was conducted in Ghana between 21 June 2017 and 20 August 2017. Methods A roster of certified Ob/Gyns, year certified and email contact information was obtained from the Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons, a roster of practice locations was obtained from Ghana Medical Board. Main outcome measures Retention of Ob/Gyns, geographic distribution of providers and comparison of geographic spread between 2010 and 2017 practice locations. Results Significant geographic spread and increase in in‐country medical programmes have occurred over the 7‐year period. In recent years, Ob/Gyn certifications through the Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons have significantly increased. Conclusion The establishment of the Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons created a national certification opportunity that made Ob/Gyn certification more accessible. This provides a cadre of certified Ob/Gyns that can be trained and retained in low‐income settings, and allows for long‐term commitment in multiple relevant sectors that may serve to establish a comprehensive obstetric and gynaecology capacity beyond urban centres.