Youth Perspectives on the Future of Medical Practice and Innovation in Ghana,

The future of medical practice in Africa will be shaped by its youth, yet their perspectives on medical innovation and the evolving role of healthcare professionals are not well documented. Understanding these views is crucial for planning medical education and health system development in Ghana and similar contexts. This study aimed to explore the perspectives of Ghanaian youth on the future of medical practice and innovation. It sought to identify their expectations, perceived challenges, and envisioned roles for healthcare professionals. A qualitative, exploratory design was employed. Data were collected via in-depth, semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions with Ghanaian youth from diverse educational and regional backgrounds. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data. A predominant theme was the critical need for greater integration of technology into routine healthcare, with participants emphasising telemedicine and digital health records. However, they strongly cautioned that technological advancement must not replace the essential human elements of care, such as empathy and patient rapport. Ghanaian youth envision a technologically augmented future for medicine but insist it must remain patient-centred. They perceive themselves as key agents in driving this innovation while upholding core medical values. Medical curricula should be adapted to better integrate digital health competencies alongside training in communication and empathy. Policymakers should involve youth in health innovation planning to ensure developments align with their expectations and address identified systemic challenges. Medical education, health innovation, youth perspectives, Ghana, future of medicine, digital health, qualitative research This original research provides insights into the aspirations and concerns of African youth regarding the future of medical practice, offering evidence to inform medical training and health policy in Ghana and beyond.