Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh has stated that doctors and other health professionals implicated in the Charles Amissah case may still face disciplinary action. This comes as institutions implement the findings of a committee established to investigate the circumstances surrounding the case. The committee was set up after the controversy surrounding the "no bed syndrome" in Ghana's emergency healthcare system.
The committee's recommendations include the creation of a national electronic emergency bed management system, compulsory triage for emergency patients, and the integration of the Ghana Armed Forces' critical care into the national emergency system. Additionally, the committee proposed the establishment of a national emergency care fund to cover the first 24 hours of care. Akandoh emphasized that the government remains committed to implementing these recommendations.
According to Akandoh, some institutions have already concluded their investigations and reached recommendations, particularly the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital. However, he noted that the process has taken time due to legal considerations. Akandoh stressed that disciplinary action in some cases involves complex legal issues, but he assured that the government will see the process through.
The Health Minister also revealed that the implementation of the national electronic emergency bed management system has begun. A command centre has been established at Ridge Hospital, with the system being piloted in selected regional and teaching hospitals. The system aims to provide the Ministry with visibility over emergency beds and patients occupying them.
The bed management system will also help identify patients who remain in emergency units for more than 24 hours, despite claims that no beds are available. Akandoh stated that hospitals are being equipped with barcoded beds, while ambulance services have also been integrated into the system. This move is expected to improve the management of scarce resources in the healthcare sector.
Furthermore, Akandoh mentioned that the government is considering expanding emergency capacity at Korle-Bu, Komfo Anokye, Tamale, and 37 Military Hospital. The government currently has over 200 ambulances in service, with plans to add 100 new vehicles in 2027. This expansion aims to enhance the country's emergency healthcare services.
When asked whether individuals recommended for disciplinary action would eventually be sanctioned, Akandoh responded that they are all under the laws of Ghana. He added that the government is committed to taking action against those found culpable in the Charles Amissah case. The Minister's comments come as the Nursing and Midwifery Council awaits a report before sanctioning nurses involved in the case.
Key points
- Doctors and health professionals implicated in the Charles Amissah case may still face disciplinary action.
- The government has begun implementing a national electronic emergency bed management system.
- The government is considering expanding emergency capacity at several major hospitals.
