A severe water shortage at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) in Kumasi has compelled doctors to suspend all surgical procedures indefinitely, citing concerns over patient safety and hygiene.
The Komfo Anokye Doctors Association (KADA), in a memo dated March 25, 2025, formally notified hospital management of the decision, stating that the Orthopaedic and Emergency Directorate would also halt new patient admissions until the situation is resolved.
“The current water shortage has severely impacted essential healthcare services, making it impossible to maintain hygiene, conduct surgeries, and ensure patient safety,” the memo read.
Doctors Raise Alarm Over Critical Conditions
According to the association, despite attempts to manage the crisis, the situation has worsened, putting patients at serious risk. Water remains a vital resource for sterilization, surgical procedures, and general patient care, yet its scarcity has compromised hospital operations.
Dr. Michael Leat, Chairman of KADA, apologized for the disruption but emphasized that existing patients would still receive care.
“We regret any inconvenience this may cause and urge management to take urgent steps to resolve the water crisis. While surgeries are suspended, we will continue to manage current patients as best as we can while maintaining hygiene and safety standards,” he stated.
Management Struggles to Secure Alternative Water Supply
Meanwhile, hospital management has acknowledged the crisis, attributing the water shortage to delays in restoration by the Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL).
A statement from the Public Relations Directorate of KATH explained that the hospital is currently relying on alternative sources, including support from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) and the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA). However, these supplies have proven insufficient due to the hospital’s high water demand.
“We are in continuous discussions with the regional office of GWCL to expedite repair works and restore normal water supply as soon as possible,” the statement assured.
As pressure mounts for an immediate solution, stakeholders are urging the government and relevant agencies to intervene and prevent further disruptions to critical healthcare services at one of Ghana’s largest hospitals.
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com/Gumedzo Isaac Acheampong
