A Call for Free Monthly Health Screening for Ghanaian Teachers: Investing in Teacher Retention and Productivity

Teachers in Ghana bear significant responsibility of educating future leaders. In addition to their teaching roles, they frequently act as counsellors, mediators, and behaviour managers, coping with large classes and high levels of noise.

These demands lead to various health issues, such as stress-related high blood pressure and vocal strain. Teachers also face difficult conditions that affect their physical and mental health.  In light of these challenges, it is essential for the government to consider free monthly health screening policy for teachers to support preventive care and ease some of the financial and physical burdens they encounter.

As an indisputable fact, factors such as large class sizes and high noise levels often require teachers to speak for long durations, increase their vocal volume, and address disruptive behaviour. Research indicates that exposure to such stressful situations can result in health issues like hypertension, chronic respiratory problems, and mental health disorders (Kyriacou & Sutcliffe, 2021).  This implies that, extended exposure to these pressures can significantly hinder teachers’ effectiveness, resulting in elevated levels of burnout and turnover.

Learning from International Models

As a country, we need to learn from preventive healthcare initiatives that boost teacher morale. For example, Finland offers extensive health support for teachers. This comprises mental health resources and regular health screenings. This strategy has contributed to Finland having one of the lowest teacher turnover rates worldwide and maintaining consistently high educational performance (OECD, 2022).

Likewise, the United Kingdom provides regular health examinations for teachers through its well-being charter. The program grants teachers access to both physical and mental health resources. A study indicates that UK teachers who undergo regular health checks experience lower stress levels and greater job satisfaction (BMJ, 2022). Furthermore, Singapore also conducts annual health screenings for teachers. It focuses on essential health indicators like blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and mental health evaluations. This program has resulted in decreased health-related absenteeism, further demonstrating the success of preventive care for teachers (MOE, 2023).

These examples are clear evidence that, prioritizing teachers’ health in Ghana will lead to significant benefits in productivity, retention, and the overall quality of education.

Addressing Criticisms

Opponents of this initiative may voice various concerns, such as the program’s financial viability, equity issues, and the possibility of alternative approaches. Each of these aspects requires thorough examination, as the success of the health screening program hinges on effectively addressing these matters.

• Financial Viability: A key objection to the proposal for free monthly health screenings for teachers is the anticipated financial strain on the government. While the initial costs may appear high, research demonstrates that preventive healthcare can decrease long-term medical expenses by detecting problems early and mitigating the impact of chronic illnesses (AJPH, 2020). By investing in preventive care for teachers, the government could lower the expensive treatment costs for advanced health issues and reduce economic losses from teacher absenteeism. Additionally, a healthier teaching workforce promotes better student performance, which is essential for economic growth and national progress.
• Equity Issues: Another concern may be that offering health screenings exclusively for teachers might be perceived as unfair to other public sector workers. However, teachers encounter distinctive health risks related to their profession, such as vocal strain, exposure to noise, and stress from handling large classes. Furthermore, the well-being of teachers significantly influences the quality of education and student achievement, which has broad societal implications. By focusing on preventive care for teachers, Ghana would be making a long-term investment in both its educational and economic future. If the program is successful, it could also serve as a model for other public sector roles with similar health challenges.
• Alternative Options: Some critics might propose that instead of monthly screenings, teachers should have access to private health insurance or occasional check-ups as needed. However, private insurance can be costly and often inadequately covers preventive care, particularly for health concerns that may initially seem minor but can escalate into serious conditions if ignored. Monthly screenings would ensure that teachers receive regular preventive care, minimizing the risk of chronic health issues going undetected. This consistent support could also enhance teachers’ morale and commitment by fostering a sense of acknowledgment and respect for their profession.
• Implementation Challenges: Concerns may also arise regarding the logistical aspects of rolling out a nationwide monthly screening program. Coordinating with healthcare providers, ensuring consistent quality, and making the program accessible to teachers in remote locations could pose difficulties. Nevertheless, these issues could be managed by collaborating with local health clinic medical teams.
• Launching a pilot program in selected districts would enable the government to identify and address logistical challenges before expanding it across the country.

The Benefits

The advantages of preventive health screenings in enhancing overall health and minimizing absenteeism are well-established. Research demonstrates that early detection of health problems allows individuals to manage them more effectively, resulting in better quality of life and productivity (Collie et al., 2021). For teachers, who often experience significant occupational stress, routine health screenings could not only boost their physical health but also provide comfort and support, thereby improving their job satisfaction and commitment.

Implementing a free monthly health screening initiative for Ghanaian teachers could positively influence teacher retention and productivity, helping to tackle the high turnover rates that currently affect the profession. Research indicates that teachers who feel supported by their organizations and receive sufficient healthcare are more likely to stay in their roles and perform well (Kyriacou & Sutcliffe, 2021). By addressing the underlying health issues, Ghana could enhance teacher well-being, lower burnout rates, and cultivate a more stable and motivated workforce.

Conclusion: A Call to the 2024 Presidential Hopefuls

The obstacles confronting Ghanaian teachers are substantial, but the advantages of promoting their health and well-being are equally vital. As the country gears up for the 2024 elections, we encourage presidential candidates to make a free monthly health screening program for teachers a fundamental element of their educational policies. By implementing a preventive health strategy, Ghana would convey a strong message recognizing teachers as vital members of society whose well-being is important.

While it may be argued that these difficulties are common in high-stress jobs, it’s crucial to acknowledge the vital role teachers play in establishing a strong foundation for Ghana’s progress. Without adequate support for their health and well-being, the quality of education, and consequently student outcomes, will be adversely affected.

 

 

WRITTEN BY: WISDOM KOUDJO KLU, EDUCATIONIST/COLUMNIST, GREATER ACCRA REGION