Assemblies of
God Hospital
Saboba, Africa
Origin Story & Hospital Summary:
Assemblies of God Hospital, previously known as Saboba Medical Center, was established to serve the Saboba-Chereponi district in the Northern Region of Ghana. Located in Saboba, a rural village on the Ghana-Togo border, the hospital is approximately 110 miles or a three-hour drive from the regional capital, Tamale. The hospital aims to provide comprehensive healthcare services to the underserved population in this sub-Sahelian region, Today, Assemblies of God Hospital is a 100-bed facility offering a variety of medical services. The hospital includes pediatric, women's, maternity, and men's wards, as well as an operating theatre for major and minor surgeries. The hospital features an active Eye Unit with regular outreach programs conducted by a skilled ophthalmologist, a Mental Health Unit staffed by three mental health nurses, and a developing Nutrition Unit.
Technology & Capacity:
Assemblies of God Hospital is equipped with essential medical technologies and facilities to support its services. The hospital has a functioning operating theatre, diagnostic services, and is working towards developing its Nutrition Unit. The hospital's mental health and eye care units are particularly notable for their outreach efforts and specialized care.
Church and Governance:
The hospital operates under the guidance of the Christian Health Service Corps (CHSC), with Dr. Jean Young, a pediatric surgeon, and Bob Young, who supports hospital infrastructure and other ministry capacities, serving as long-term missionaries. The hospital's mission aligns with the CHSC's goal of building local capacity by training and discipling local health professionals to serve their communities.
Training Opportunities:
While there is no formal training program at Assemblies of God Hospital, Ghanaian physicians frequently serve extended periods, providing opportunities for cross-cultural growth and learning. The hospital staff often participate as faculty in established training programs and residencies, fostering the development of the next generation of health professionals.
Medical and Support Staff Needs:
Nutritionist
Nurse Anesthetist
Family Medicine
General Surgeon
OB/GYN
X-ray Technician
Registered Nurses (multiple specialties, ideally an RN Clinical Educator)
Hospital/Missionary Chaplain
Information Technology Specialist
General Administrative Support (e.g., social media)
Language:
English is the official language of Ghana and is spoken by most hospital staff. It is also the primary language for government, business, and education. Additionally, about 7 million Ghanaians speak Twi.
Housing & Food:
Housing is provided for both short-term volunteers and long-term staff. Accommodations include essential amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. Volunteers are responsible for their own meals, with local markets and resources available for purchasing food.
Travel:
Volunteers can travel to Ghana by flying into Tamale, the regional capital. From there, it is a three-hour drive to Saboba. The hospital staff will assist with transportation arrangements from Tamale to Saboba.
Time Difference:
Ghana operates on Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), which is UTC+0.
People and Local Religion:
The population served by Assemblies of God Hospital consists mainly of rural villagers engaged in subsistence farming. Christianity is the predominant religion, followed by Islam and traditional beliefs.
Climate:
The climate in Saboba is typical of the sub-Sahelian region, characterized by a hot and dry season from November to March, and a rainy season from April to October. Temperatures can be quite high during the dry season, with cooler, more temperate weather during the rainy season.
Unique Challenges:
Common health issues include infectious diseases, maternal and child health concerns, and nutritional deficiencies. The hospital faces logistical challenges in maintaining a steady supply of medical equipment and medicines, often relying on external support to supplement government supplies.
Evangelism Opportunities:
Assemblies of God Hospital integrates spiritual care with its medical services, ensuring that every patient has the opportunity to hear the gospel. The hospital's chaplaincy and outreach programs are essential components of its mission, providing both physical and spiritual healing.
For further details, visit the Assemblies of God Hospital website.