The Minister of Health in Ghana, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has taken decisive action following a recent assault on a nurse at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital, commonly known as Ridge Hospital. A special committee has been established to thoroughly investigate the incident and provide recommendations for preventative measures within one week. This response comes amidst public outcry and criticism directed at the minister after he was seen shaking hands with the alleged assailant, Ralph St. Williams, during a visit to the hospital. The minister’s action was interpreted by some, including the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association, as condoning violence against healthcare workers.
Mr. Akandoh has clarified his actions, explaining the sequence of events that led to the handshake. He emphasized that he first dispatched a delegation to gather information about the incident before personally visiting the hospital for a closed-door meeting with management. Following the meeting, he was introduced to Mr. St. Williams, who extended his hand in greeting. The minister maintained that he was obligated to reciprocate the gesture, regardless of the accusations against the individual. He argued that even a convicted criminal deserves basic courtesy, and his handshake should not be misconstrued as condoning the alleged assault. He firmly condemned violence against healthcare professionals and reiterated the government’s commitment to their safety.
In addition to addressing the assault incident, the Minister of Health announced the implementation of a nationwide 24-hour complaint system for patients in all public hospitals. This initiative aims to provide a readily accessible platform for patients to voice their grievances without resorting to violence. The system will incorporate phone lines and suggestion boxes, ensuring that complaints are efficiently channeled and addressed. Mr. Akandoh stressed that lodging a complaint does not automatically validate the complaint itself, but rather initiates an investigative process to determine the facts and appropriate course of action.
Beyond the immediate response to the assault and the establishment of the complaint system, Mr. Akandoh highlighted broader efforts to strengthen the healthcare sector. He underscored the government’s commitment to improving staff welfare, retooling hospitals, and enhancing rapid response systems. He also revealed plans to bolster security arrangements at district and regional hospitals, including closer collaboration with local police forces. This enhanced security presence aims to prevent future incidents and ensure the safety of both healthcare workers and patients.
Furthermore, the minister addressed the issue of medical negligence, acknowledging its significance and the associated financial burden on the ministry. He disclosed that the ministry expends substantial sums on compensation for medical negligence cases, with some facilities exceeding GH¢10 million in a single instance. He cited three pending cases currently under review, highlighting the ongoing challenges posed by medical negligence and the ministry’s dedication to addressing them.
In conclusion, Mr. Akandoh’s response to the Ridge Hospital assault encompassed immediate actions, such as the formation of an investigative committee and the introduction of a nationwide complaint system, as well as broader initiatives to bolster healthcare infrastructure, staff welfare, and security. He emphasized the importance of empathy and understanding between patients and healthcare professionals, while reaffirming the government’s commitment to accountability and reform within the health sector. The minister’s explanation of the handshake, his strong condemnation of violence against healthcare workers, and the announcement of comprehensive measures demonstrate a multifaceted approach to addressing the complex challenges facing the healthcare system in Ghana. His appeal for public understanding coupled with the concrete steps taken suggests a commitment to fostering a safer and more responsive healthcare environment for both patients and professionals.
