Kumasi, Ghana (February 2008 - present)

The Republic of Ghana, in West Africa, is widely viewed as one of Africa's most stable democracies, as the first sub-Saharan African nation to achieve independence from its colonial heritage in 1957. The city of Kumasi lays west of the capital of Accra. This historic city was once the capital of the Ashanti Empire and continues to serve as the cultural center of the Ashanti people. Although the city was destroyed almost a century ago, Kumasi contains the modern palace of the Asantehene.

There is a single cardiac surgery center in Accra, which only performs about 100 cases each year. The Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH), in Kumasi, serves a more deprived population. It depends on foreign nonprofits to perform cardiac surgeries.  CardioStart is helping to develop an independent, comprehensive program by sending large equipment and supplies, and help set the necessary benchmarks for the Hospital to become a regional tertiary referral center.  As part of this mission, we will be assisting development with more complex procedures, help evolve the rhythm of regular operating, monitor progress and continue physician and nurse cardiology, surgical, and medical education.  During missions, CardioStart provides the entire program with comprehensive nursing, biomedical, perfusion, ICU equipment preparation and teaching.

Ghana possesses one of the best game reserves in West Africa, a multitude of good beaches and is widely known for its people's hospitality.  Lodging for CardioStart missions is graciously provided for by our hosts. Breakfast and lunch are provided by the hospital.  Safari, coastal trips and other adventures are worth considering, before or after the mission.