A recent visit by the Minister of Health, Mr. Kwaku Agyeman-Manu, to the Tamale Teaching Hospital (TTH) has triggered a wave of public controversy, prompting a strong rebuttal from the hospital’s doctors’ association.
The Doctors Association of Tamale Teaching Hospital (DATTH) has issued a passionate press release defending one of their senior colleagues following a social media storm that erupted after videos of an exchange between the minister and the head of the Accident and Emergency Department went viral.
According to the statement, the videos have been taken out of context, misrepresenting the facts of what transpired on the ground. The incident stemmed from a discussion about the management of a referred patient, which escalated into a heated exchange. The doctors insist the conversation, though tense, was focused on highlighting systemic challenges and not aimed at confrontation.
“Our colleague has worked tirelessly and with dedication,” the statement reads, calling out media outlets for what it describes as an “unfair picture” that has damaged the doctor’s reputation and the integrity of TTH.
The DATTH further criticized the public interrogation of the doctor, calling it “inappropriate” and warning against the spread of misinformation and vilification of healthcare workers. “This trend not only affects morale but threatens the harmony necessary for effective patient care,” the release warned.
With concerns mounting, the association has announced an emergency meeting to consider its next steps, even hinting at possible industrial action if the current climate of blame and lack of resources continues.
“We stand in strong solidarity with our colleague,” the statement declared, underscoring the need for support rather than scapegoating of medical personnel battling under difficult conditions.
It further stated that “if the current trend where basic requirements for health care are unavailable, only for health personnel to be vilified for poor outcomes, we will advise ourselves and take actions that may not guarantee industrial harmony.”
Source: TheDotNews