REFLECTIONS FROM THE CHAIR

Dear FOCOS Family,

As we welcome 2025, I am filled with gratitude for all that we accomplished together in 2024. It was a year defined by impact, resilience, and unwavering support from individuals like you who believe in the FOCOS mission.

One of the standout moments of 2024 was our Holiday Fundraiser in New York City. This gathering of passionate supporters and advocates showcased the power of collective action. Together, we raised significant funds that will fuel our efforts in 2025 and beyond, allowing us to expand our reach and impact.

Our success is a testament to the commitment of everyone involved—our donors, sponsors, medical teams, and volunteers. It is through your belief in our mission that we can continue to stand tall as a beacon of hope for underserved communities around the world.

Thanks to your incredible generosity, the funds raised will enable us to reach more patients, enhance our medical missions, and transform lives across the globe.

Your dedication drives our success. It is through your contributions—whether as donors, partners, or advocates—that we can continue to deliver world-class orthopedic care to those who need it most.

As we begin this new year, we are filled with optimism and determination to achieve even more. With your partnership, together, we will continue to create lasting change, ensuring that every patient has the chance to stand tall and thrive.

Thank you for being a vital part of the FOCOS family. Wishing you a healthy, happy, and impactful year ahead!



With Heartfelt thanks,

Kwadwo Boachie-Adjei

FOCOS Board Chair

HONORING A TRAILBLAZER IN HEALTHCARE

The FOCOS Board, Management, and staff of FOCOS Hospital are elated and excited to extend their heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Irene Adorkor Wulff, CEO and physician at FOCOS Hospital, for receiving a prestigious international award at the 3rd African Women Conference and Awards 2024, held in Ethiopia.

The award celebrates her leading the groundbreaking, stellar work in orthopedic and spine surgeries at FOCOS hospital as well as Dr. Wulff’s role as a champion for women in leadership. As a visionary CEO and practicing doctor, Dr. Wulff has led FOCOS Hospital to global acclaim for its pioneering spinal and joint surgeries.

The exceptional work of her medical team led by Dr. Wulff, has restored mobility to countless adults and children; and elevated the hospital as a beacon of hope for those facing complex orthopedic challenges in Africa. Dr. Wulff’s vision for FOCOS hospital is to offer these life changing surgeries to all who need it at the modern hospital campus in Accra Ghana, while encouraging young women to choose medicine as a career.

Her international recognition has filled the entire FOCOS community with pride that their CEO has received this well-deserved honor.

TRANSFORMING LIVES: THE IMPACT OF 33 SPINE ALIGN'S PARTNERSHIP WITH FOCOS HOSPITAL

FOCOS Hospital was honored to host a special visit from 33 Spine Align, whose continued support has made a profound impact on the hospital’s mission to provide quality musculoskeletal care. In a demonstration of their commitment to transforming lives, 33 Spine Align sponsored treatment for eight patients with varying musculoskeletal conditions, ensuring they received the specialized care needed to improve their quality of life.

This visit marks a pivotal moment in the long-standing partnership between 33 Spine Align and FOCOS Hospital, which has been flourishing since 2019. Through this collaboration, FOCOS has been able to expand access to essential spine and orthopedic care for underserved communities, bringing hope to many who previously had limited options for treatment.

During their time at the hospital, the 33 Spine Align team worked closely with FOCOS medical professionals to assess, treat, and provide surgical interventions for these eight patients. The team’s expertise in spinal care, combined with FOCOS’ renowned multidisciplinary approach, allowed for tailored treatments that will bring lasting relief to those affected by debilitating musculoskeletal conditions.

The patients, who had previously struggled with conditions ranging from severe back pain to complex spinal deformities, now have the opportunity to live pain-free and resume their daily activities thanks to the incredible generosity of 33 Spine Align. Their sponsorship has removed financial barriers and offered these individuals a renewed sense of hope for a healthier future.

The collaboration between 33 Spine Align and FOCOS Hospital has been a beacon of shared vision since its inception, and both organizations look forward to even stronger partnerships in the years ahead. By continuing to work together, they aim to expand their reach, provide more patients with life-changing treatments, and drive innovation in the field of musculoskeletal health.

As the year 2024 draws to a close, both 33 Spine Align and FOCOS are excited about the possibilities that 2025 holds. With a shared commitment to advancing healthcare, they are poised to deliver even more meaningful contributions to the global community. The partnership remains steadfast in its mission to improve lives, one patient at a time.

THE 66^TH GHANA MEDICAL ASSOCIATION ANNUAL CONFERENCE

The 66th Ghana Medical Association (GMA) Conference, held from November 6th to 8th, 2024, at the University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS) in Ho, Volta Region, was a pivotal gathering for healthcare professionals across the country. The year’s event provided a dynamic platform for medical practitioners, industry experts, and healthcare stakeholders to exchange knowledge, explore innovations, and discuss solutions to the challenges facing the healthcare sector. 

FOCOS Hospital was represented by a dedicated team: Dr. Addai, Family Physician; Mr. Asamoah, Head of I.T.; and Ms. Sylvia, Marketing Representative. The team was there not only to showcase our hospital’s services but also to contribute to the discussions on the role of technology in transforming healthcare.

Upon arrival in Ho on the first day, the team smoothly completed the registration process, receiving access to the event's sessions and exhibition areas. The conference kicked off with a strong sense of collaboration and excitement.

Thursday was an especially productive day for FOCOS. Mr. Asamoah delivered a highly anticipated presentation on the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Information Technology (I.T.) in healthcare. His session captivated attendees as he shared insights into how emerging technologies like AI are enhancing patient care, improving diagnostic accuracy, and optimizing healthcare operations. His presentation sparked lively discussions and raised important questions about the future role of technology in healthcare.

Meanwhile, Ms. Sylvia represented FOCOS at the exhibition booth, engaging with fellow healthcare professionals and sharing information about the hospital's expanding services. The exhibition proved to be an excellent opportunity to network with various healthcare providers, build connections, and explore potential collaborations aimed at addressing the growing healthcare needs of our communities.

Friday marked the conclusion of a successful conference. As the final sessions wrapped up, our team reflected on the valuable insights gained throughout the event. We left with several promising leads and potential opportunities that we look forward to pursuing in the coming months.

The 66th GMA Conference was an incredibly rewarding experience for FOCOS Hospital. It offered an ideal platform for networking, knowledge sharing, and engaging in meaningful conversations about the future of healthcare, particularly in the realms of I.T. and technological innovation. Mr. Asamoah’s impactful presentation on AI in healthcare was undoubtedly a highlight of the event.

We are excited to apply the insights and connections gained from the conference to enhance our services and further contribute to the advancement of healthcare in Ghana.

We look forward to continuing our commitment to healthcare excellence, leveraging technology to improve patient outcomes, and fostering collaborations that benefit the entire healthcare ecosystem. Stay tuned for more updates as we work toward a brighter, healthier future for all.

DUKE ORTHOPAEDICS VOLUNTEERS MAKE IMPACT AT FOCOS HOSPITAL IN GHANA

From September 30th to October 4th, 2024, a dedicated team of surgeons from Duke University​ (Duke Hand Society) ​ in North Carolina ​traveled to Accra, Ghana, to volunteer their expertise at the Hospital.

Dr. Yaw Boachie-Adjei, Dr. Tyler Pidgeon, and Dr. David Ruch, renowned specialists in upper extremity conditions, were on a mission to provide surgical care, teach local doctors, and impact the community. Over five days, the team worked tirelessly to perform complex surgeries on 12 patients, each with varying upper extremity conditions. The patients ranged from those with severe fractures to individuals suffering from debilitating congenital or acquired disorders. The surgeries were intricate, but thanks to the collaboration between Duke’s team and FOCOS Hospital’s talented surgeons, they successfully restored function and improved the quality of life for each patient.

In addition to performing surgeries, the Duke team shared their wealth of knowledge with local healthcare providers, offering educational sessions on advanced surgical techniques and the latest practices in orthopaedic care. This exchange of expertise is vital for fostering the growth of medical skills in Ghana and ensuring that local healthcare professionals can continue to deliver the highest standard of care for years to come. FOCOS Hospital, a leading institution in Orthopaedic care in West Africa, has long been a hub for world-class medical treatment and research. The collaboration with Duke Orthopaedics underscores the power of international partnerships in addressing the healthcare needs of underserved populations.

As the team returned to the U.S., they were not only proud of the surgeries they performed but also of the lasting relationships they built with their colleagues in Ghana. This mission exemplifies Duke Orthopaedics’ commitment to advancing global health and continuing to make a difference in the lives

of individuals worldwide.

The success of this trip highlights the importance of volunteerism and the profound impact that healthcare professionals can have, not only through medical interventions but also through the exchange of knowledge, skills, and compassion.

This year, the Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) Committee seized the opportunity provided by IIPW 2024, celebrated from October 14-18, to promote education, training, and awareness of infection control practices among patients and staff. The activity-packed week opened with a keynote address from FOCOS CEO, Dr. Irene Wulff, and Medical Director, Dr. Yankey Kwadwo Poku. Both leaders emphasized the importance of adhering to infection control standards, such as sharps safety and hand hygiene, to minimize the spread of infections.

Webinar on Blood-Borne Pathogens and PEP Management

A major highlight was the webinar facilitated by Ms. Claudia and Ms. Jacqueline, with Mr. Clement serving as moderator. The session drew participants nationwide, offering insights into managing blood-borne pathogens and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP). Certificates of participation were issued to attendees.

‘Build A Bug’ Contest

Departments teamed up to creatively depict microorganisms like Salmonella Typhi, Acinetobacter baumannii, Escherichia coli, and others. Using various materials, staff made these microorganisms tangible and relatable, deepening their understanding of the microbes' characteristics and how to prevent their spread. Group 1, comprising the Surgery Block, IT, and Admin departments, won with their presentation on Salmonella Typhi. (Fun fact: Did you know Pseudomonas tastes salty?) The importance of hand hygiene was reinforced through training sessions and hands-on demonstrations. Staff were observed practicing proper hand hygiene techniques to ensure compliance with best practices.



The week concluded with a celebration of the Housekeeping team as part of ‘Clean Hospital Day.’ Mr. Emmanuel Abina was recognized as the Best Housekeeper, with Rosalia Kumi and Mabel Asante as runners-up. All housekeepers were honored with gifts to acknowledge their dedication to maintaining a clean and safe hospital environment.

During my month-long internship at FOCOS Hospital, I gained invaluable hands-on experience in the healthcare field. This opportunity allowed me to shadow doctors and nurses, providing me with a firsthand look at the daily activities and operations of a modern hospital. I primarily worked in the outpatient department, urgent care, and wards, where I learned to take clinical histories, perform physical examinations, and familiarize myself with various diagnostic tools and procedures.

One of the most impactful aspects of my experience was witnessing the teamwork that underpins quality patient care. Observing the seamless collaboration between doctors, nurses, and support staff highlighted the importance of communication in addressing patients' needs effectively. Although my role was mostly observational, it offered me a deep appreciation of the hospital's operational dynamics.

FOCOS Hospital also stood out for its warm and welcoming atmosphere. Regardless of their roles—be it doctors, nurses, security personnel, administrators, or cleaners—every staff member exhibited kindness, patience, and tolerance. This nurturing environment extended to me as an intern, making me feel valued and included throughout my stay.

In conclusion, my internship at FOCOS Hospital was a transformative experience that deepened my understanding of healthcare. It reinforced my passion for medicine and equipped me with essential skills that will undoubtedly shape my future as a medical professional.



— Klenam Kanda, Medical Student

FOCOS HOSPITAL HONORED WITH ''MOST ADVANCED ORTHOPAEDIC HOSPITAL AWARD'' AT HEALTHCARE BUSINESS AWARDS 2024

FOCOS Orthopaedic Hospital has once again been recognized for its excellence and commitment to transforming healthcare in Africa. At the prestigious Healthcare CEO Summit and Healthcare Business Awards 2024, held on November 29th, FOCOS Hospital proudly received the ''Most Advanced Orthopaedic Hospital Award''. This accolade cements the hospital’s position as a leader in orthopedic care, both on the continent and beyond.

This recognition celebrates FOCOS Hospital’s cutting-edge facilities, world-class surgical expertise, and unwavering dedication to providing life-changing care for patients. For over two decades, FOCOS has continued to innovate and pioneer advancements in orthopedics, spinal surgeries, and rehabilitation, ensuring patients receive not only medical treatment but also hope and a second chance at life.

The award reflects the hard work and dedication of the entire FOCOS team—surgeons, nurses, administrative staff, and partners—who work tirelessly to fulfill the hospital’s mission of providing high-quality, accessible healthcare. It is also a testament to the vision and leadership of the hospital’s management, whose commitment to advancing healthcare standards continues to inspire.

FOCOS Orthopaedic Hospital extends its heartfelt gratitude to the organizers of the Healthcare CEO Summit and all those who have supported its journey. This award fuels our passion for excellence and motivates us to reach even greater heights in serving our patients and community. Together, we are redefining the future of healthcare!

Stay tuned for more updates as FOCOS continues to break barriers and lead innovation in orthopaedic care.

Thank you for being part of our journey!