The Ghana Medical Association (GMA) has raised alarms over increasing cases of alcohol misuse, drug abuse, and allegations of sexual misconduct among healthcare professionals, warning that these behaviours jeopardize patient care.

Speaking at the GMA’s annual general meeting, Dr. Frank Serebour, the association’s president, highlighted these pressing issues, revealing that some medical professionals with substance abuse problems continue to see patients despite their impairments. This, he cautioned, poses serious risks to the quality of healthcare.

Dr. Serebour also pointed to the rise in lawsuits against medical professionals and health facilities in Ghana, many of which involve allegations of negligence and professional misconduct. Some cases include sexual harassment complaints currently under investigation by the Medical and Dental Council.

“We have health personnel involved in alcoholism and drug abuse, impacting their quality of life and, subsequently, patient care,” Dr. Serebour said.

In a sharp critique of the health sector, he also spoke of unprofessional practices, including chronic lateness, absenteeism, and reduced working hours among some medical staff. “Some workers arrive at 9:00 a.m. and leave by noon, expecting a full day’s wage,” he noted.

Dr. Serebour expressed frustration over instances where the public, rather than holding professionals accountable, places blame on superstition, allowing poor conduct to continue unchecked.

“Too often, cases go unresolved because victims attribute issues to ‘witches and wizards’ rather than systemic failures in healthcare,” he added.

The GMA president emphasized that a loss of professionalism and a growing focus on self-interest may be contributing to these issues, urging swift action to restore standards across the sector.

Source:TheDotNews