Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, is urging striking doctors at Tamale Teaching Hospital (TTH) to return to work, following a controversial visit that triggered a walkout and intensified tensions between government officials and healthcare professionals.
The visit, which occurred on April 22 in response to the reported death of a patient due to the unavailability of a functional ventilator, culminated in a public confrontation between Mr. Akandoh and Dr. Valentine Akwulpwa, head of the hospital’s Accident and Emergency Department. A video of the exchange went viral on social media, drawing widespread scrutiny and criticism.
In protest, the Doctors Association of Tamale Teaching Hospital (DATTH) suspended all emergency and outpatient services indefinitely. The group cited “unwarranted attacks” by the minister and his delegation and demanded both an unconditional apology and urgent improvements to medical infrastructure at the facility.
Speaking at a press briefing in Accra on Thursday, Mr. Akandoh denied any intent to undermine or disrespect medical personnel. “It was never my intention to slight any medical doctor or health worker. That would be the last thing I’d do,” he said. “But let it be known that respect is reciprocal.”
The minister recounted his own experience as a patient at a rural hospital to convey his understanding of the healthcare system’s challenges. “I once found myself at Nyinahini District Hospital after an accident—something I never imagined,” he said, adding that the episode deepened his commitment to improving healthcare delivery.
Akandoh made a direct appeal to the doctors at TTH, saying, “Let us call off the strike and regroup to chart a path forward. Some issues can be addressed with internally generated funds.”
Despite the conciliatory tone, tensions remain high. The minister’s decision to remove TTH Chief Executive Officer Dr. Adam Atiku has drawn sharp criticism from the Ghana Medical Association (GMA), which accused Mr. Akandoh of bypassing due process and abusing executive authority. The GMA is calling for the CEO’s reinstatement and a formal apology from the Health Ministry.
The standoff highlights the growing strain within Ghana’s public healthcare system, where operational bottlenecks and equipment shortages continue to challenge service delivery.
Source:TheDotNews