Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, the Minister of Health, has responded to the growing tensions after his surprise visit to the Tamale Teaching Hospital (TTH), emphasizing that he did not want to offend medical staff during the interaction.
According to reports, the visit, which happened on April 22, was brought on by the death of a patient named Bavug Salim, who was allegedly killed at the hospital’s emergency room because there was no working ventilator.
On social media, a video showing a furious altercation between Akandoh and the head of the Accident and Emergency Department, Dr. Valentine Akwulpwa, swiftly gained a lot of attention and sparked public outrage.
The Doctors Association of Tamale Teaching Hospital (DATTH) suspended emergency and outpatient services indefinitely in protest.
The group is calling for unequivocal apologies and the prompt delivery of necessary medical supplies and equipment before full services are resumed, citing “unwarranted attacks” from the Health Minister and other officials.
However, during a press conference in Accra on Thursday, April 24, the Health Minister used a personal story to highlight his compassion and dedication to the medical field.
“It can happen to anybody, it happened to me. When I had an accident, the first place I was rushed to was Nyinahini District Hospital. I never imagined that I would one day be at Nyinahini District Hospital, but I was there,” he said.
Reiterating his admiration for medical professionals, Akandoh wrote: “And so, today, from where I sit, I will contribute my quota to the development of this sector. I have absolutely no intention to disrespect any medical doctor or health worker; that will be the last thing I will do. But let it be said that respect is reciprocal.”
Source: Mybrytfmonline.com/Joseph Asare
