The Med Safety App was launched in Ghana by a representative of the Honourable Minister of Health on 25 June 2019. The Chief Executive Officer of the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), Mrs. Delese Darko, gave a warm welcome and expressed optimism that the app will improve ADR reporting rates and improve patient safety in Ghana.
Prior to the launch, the FDA used social media platforms, radio, and television to inform the general public about the importance of the app and raise awareness. Since the launch, distribution of flyers and engagement with professional associations and consumers has continued. For example, a presentation during the Annual General Meeting of the Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana resulted in over 400 downloads of the app.
As of 31 December 2019, six months after the launch, there have been more than 1,500 downloads and 67 ADR reports received through the app – 57 (85%) submitted by healthcare professionals and the remaining 10 (15%) from patients.
Continuous engagement and awareness raising about the benefits of the app are seen as key success factors and currently the FDA is developing strategies, including short videos, to educate patients and healthcare professionals to download and use the app.
