The Ghana Medical Association (GMA) has issued a strong warning that health workers may be forced to withdraw their services if violent assaults against them do not stop. This comes after staff of the Greater Accra Regional Hospital (Ridge) were allegedly attacked by relatives of a patient.
In a statement signed by GMA President, Dr. Frank Serebour, and General Secretary, Dr. Richard Selormey, the Association expressed outrage over a viral video showing health workers at the hospital’s Emergency Unit being verbally and physically assaulted, disrupting the delivery of critical care.
“These acts of impunity, where health professionals are abused verbally, physically, or both, must cease immediately,” the GMA declared, urging the Ghana Police Service to swiftly arrest and prosecute those responsible. The Association warned that such lawlessness endangered both medical staff and patients.
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While acknowledging that the individuals involved may have had grievances, the GMA stressed that violence was not the solution.
“There are clearly laid down procedures for resolving grievances. Violence cannot and must not be an option,” the statement noted.
The Association also criticised the Minister of Health for engaging cordially with the main suspect after the incident, describing the gesture as inappropriate and counterproductive.
“Such displays only embolden unruly individuals to act with impunity,” the GMA cautioned.
The statement further called on Ridge Hospital management to conduct a thorough probe into the incident, address legitimate concerns raised, and provide both medical and psychological support to affected staff. It also urged hospital authorities to enhance security measures to safeguard health professionals.
Sounding a firm caution, the GMA reminded the government and the public that health workers are entitled under the Labour Act to protect themselves from unsafe conditions.
“If these senseless attacks continue, health workers will have no choice but to exercise their right to remove themselves from situations that pose imminent and serious danger to their lives, safety, or health,” the Association warned.
The GMA concluded by stating that it is closely monitoring developments and will not hesitate to take further action if necessary.
Story By: Afia Ohenewaa Akyerem