Inflation....it's an equity issue

Ghana Cedis

This year's trip is the first practicum in Ghana that has occurred since the COVID-19 pandemic. Prior to departing Canada, our instructor Jeanette discussed the uncertainties that came with starting up again after three years away. One of the areas that was uncertain was what inflation would look like on the ground in Ghana and what the costs would be.

When we arrived, Jeanette told us the prices we were seeing were around two to three times more expensive than the last time UBC Okanagan had a nursing practicum here in 2020. The current exchange rate for Canadian dollars to Ghana cedis is roughly one CAD to nine cedis. During the last trip the exchange rate was roughly one CAD to four cedis. This meant, we were going to be okay.  Our budget, created on what could be called a "best guess" would cover everything we required.  

The bottom line is the decrease in the value of Ghana’s currency with the increased prices of goods that have come with inflation is not having an effect on the students in this practicum or at UBC.  We carry on as we always have.  The overall cost for UBC and the students is still relatively equal to those prior to 2020. However, this shift has had a direct impact on the people of Ghana. The cost of living has increased, while the wages do not reflect this. The cost of living has climbed, and while we are unaffected here,  the burden of inflation is being felt by the people in Ghana. To see this direct experience of inequity has been eye opening.  

Shopping in the market

 This financial strain can be seen in the healthcare system, as many people struggled to afford healthcare prior to recent inflation, and this struggle has only been amplified.

 

We visited the Shekinah Clinic to introduce this year's group of students and meet Mariama, who runs the clinic. The clinic was founded and continues to serve the mentally ill and destitute of Tamale. The clinic is completely funded by donations and run by volunteers. Mariama explained that inflation has resulted in a decrease in donations to the clinic, and they have struggled to provide care to their clients. Those that used to donate are now struggling with their own costs of living and cannot spare as much for the clinic.

 

Ghana has been disproportionally affected by inflation in comparison to Canada. These effects have had a direct impact on the people’s health and the healthcare system as a whole.  My best guess, is this experience is similar in other low and middle income countries.  This is a perfect example of global health inequity. 

 

Shopping at Colwood Women's Collaborative

Mika, 4th year BSN student