Submission ID 118486
| Issue/Objective | Background: In Ghana and many other low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), caregivers are indispensable yet often invisible and overlooked actors in the management of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes, hypertension, and mental health conditions. They provide essential daily support, yet face systemic barriers that limit their ability to offer holistic care. These include insufficient resources, minimal recognition, and limited involvement in the health system-challenges compounded by fragmented collaboration and mistrust between caregivers, healthcare providers, and policymakers. Objectives: This study examines the lived experiences of NCD (diabetes, hypertension, and mental health conditions) caregivers in Ghana, capturing their hopes, frustrations, and resilience. It aims to understand how caregivers navigate systemic barriers, what sustains their motivation, and how their insights can strengthen trust, improve collaboration, and enhance service design, and advocacy for more responsive and equitable NCD care. |
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| Methodology/Approach | Methodology: A qualitative design involving interviews, focus groups, and participatory co-production workshops was used to explore the experiences of purposively selected NCD caregivers' in Ghana. Data was thematically analysed to identify key patterns, contextual challenges, and relational dynamics shaping caregiving roles and to inform collaborative, caregiver-centered interventions. |
| Results | Results and Findings: Key findings highlight gaps in health system support, including limited access to training, inadequate financial and psychosocial support, and weak communication channels with healthcare providers. These challenges are compounded by feelings of exclusion from decision-making processes and a perceived mistrust from formal healthcare actors. Despite these challenges, caregivers express a strong commitment, and deep sense of responsibility, emphasizing what motivates them to keep going, and expressing their desire for more collaborative, respectful partnerships that value their knowledge and lived experiences. |
| Discussion/Conclusion | Discussion and Conclusion: Strengthening NCD care in LMICs requires a paradigm shift: caregivers must be recognized not only as supporters but as strategic stakeholders in health governance. Embedding their voices in decision-making, policy formulation, and service co-design can foster trust, enhance system responsiveness, and promote more equitable and people-centered care. This study highlights the need for inclusive, trust-based approaches that elevate caregiver contributions as part of a more collaborative and resilient global health system. |
| Presenters and affiliations | Linda Lucy Yevoo Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons Nana Efua Enyimayew Afun Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons Eugene Paa Kofi Bondzie Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons Kezia Naa Amerley Akosua Amarteyfio Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons Nhyira Yaw Adjei-Banuah Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons Veronika Reichenberger London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine Paul Lamptey Ashesi University Abena Boahemaa Adusei Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons Albert Cofie Ashesi Univeristy Irene Akua Agyepong Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons |
