The Ghana Medical Association (GMA) has issued a stern warning that health professionals may be forced to withdraw their services if violent attacks on them do not cease.
This follows a disturbing incident at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital (Ridge), where staff were allegedly assaulted by relatives of a patient. A video of the attack, which occurred at the hospital’s Emergency Unit, has gone viral and shows individuals verbally and physically abusing health workers, disrupting essential medical care.
In a statement signed by GMA President Dr. Frank Serebour and General Secretary Dr. Richard Selormey, the Association condemned what it described as acts of “impunity” against medical personnel.
“These acts of impunity where health professionals are abused verbally, physically, or both must cease forthwith,” the GMA stated.
The Association called on the Ghana Police Service to urgently arrest and prosecute those involved, emphasizing that such lawlessness not only endangers staff but also puts patients at risk.
While acknowledging that grievances may exist, the GMA stressed that violence is never an acceptable solution.
“There are well-established procedures for addressing concerns. Resorting to violence undermines the entire healthcare system,” the statement noted.
The GMA also criticized the Minister of Health for what it described as an inappropriate display of cordiality with the alleged lead perpetrator after the incident. The Association warned that such actions send the wrong message and could embolden further unruly behavior.
“Such displays only serve to encourage and embolden some unruly individuals to follow similar ways,” the statement added.
The GMA is urging management of Ridge Hospital to:
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Conduct a full investigation into the incident
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Address any legitimate concerns raised by the patient’s family
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Provide medical and psychological support to affected staff
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Strengthen security across the facility to protect healthcare workers
The Association reminded the government and the public that under the Labour Act, health workers have the right to remove themselves from dangerous or unsafe work environments.
“If these senseless attacks continue, health workers would be within their rights to withdraw from situations that present imminent and serious danger to their lives and safety,” the GMA cautioned.
The Association says it is closely monitoring developments and will not hesitate to take further action if necessary.
