Internal Auditing, Audit Committees and Fraud Prevention in the Ghana Health Service: Evidence from the Fanteakwa District Health Directorate

Abstract

This study investigates the relationship between the internal auditing, audit committees and fraud prevention in the Fanteakwa District Health Directorate. Primary data were collected from 108 employees from the health directorate. They included Internal Auditors, Accountants, Administrative Staff and Finance Officers. The study adopted a quantitative approach and employed a questionnaire as its primary data collection instrument. The study employed the Partial Least Square estimation technique for data analysis. The study employed explanatory research design. The study revealed that a well-qualified and knowledgeable audit committee substantially enhances the effectiveness of fraud prevention efforts. Furthermore, the study found that when the internal audit function operates independently, it plays a crucial role in preventing and mitigating fraudulent activities. Also, the study documented that the presence and active involvement of internal auditors in an organisation's operations play a vital role in deterring and preventing fraudulent activities. Therefore, it was recommended that management of the Directorate should focus on developing and maintaining a highly qualified and knowledgeable audit committee. Regular training and professional development opportunities for committee members can help them stay up-to-date with best practices in fraud prevention. Moreover, the Fanteakwa District Health Directorate should take steps to ensure that the internal audit function remains independent from the influence of management. Besides, Medical Superintendents within Fanteakwa District Health Directorate should further empower and support the internal audit team. This may include providing additional training and resources to enhance their ability to detect and prevent fraud effectively.