Ghana’s leading medical union has issued a stark ultimatum following a violent incident at one of the country’s premier hospitals, threatening to withdraw services if attacks on healthcare workers persist.
The Ghana Medical Association (GMA), which represents doctors and other health professionals nationwide, said it is “gravely concerned” over a recent assault on staff at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital—commonly known as Ridge Hospital—where relatives of a patient allegedly stormed the Emergency Unit, physically and verbally abusing personnel.
In a strongly worded statement released over the weekend and signed by President Dr. Frank Serebour and General Secretary Dr. Richard Selormey, the GMA condemned what it described as “acts of impunity” that disrupt life-saving care and place medical staff and patients in immediate danger.
“These senseless attacks must cease forthwith,” the statement read. “Health workers are not punching bags.”
The GMA called on the Ghana Police Service to swiftly investigate the incident, identify the individuals involved, and prosecute them under existing criminal statutes. While acknowledging that the lead suspect may have had grievances, the group emphasized that “violence is never the answer,” and that clear procedures exist for addressing complaints within the healthcare system.
The Association also took sharp aim at the Ministry of Health, criticizing the Health Minister’s decision to engage cordially with the primary suspect in the aftermath of the altercation. The GMA characterized the move as “inappropriate” and warned it could embolden further attacks by signaling leniency toward unlawful conduct.
“Such displays only serve to encourage and embolden some unruly individuals to follow similar ways,” the GMA said.
In addition to demanding justice, the GMA urged Ridge Hospital management to step up internal security measures, initiate an internal probe, and ensure both medical and psychological support for affected staff.
The Association also issued a reminder of healthcare workers’ rights under Ghana’s Labour Act, which allows employees to remove themselves from unsafe working conditions.
“If these attacks continue, health workers would have to exercise their right to remove themselves from situations that present imminent and serious danger to their lives, safety, or health,” the GMA cautioned.
The group added that it is actively monitoring developments and may escalate its response if its concerns are not addressed.
Violence against healthcare workers has been a rising concern in Ghana, particularly in high-pressure environments such as emergency units. While public frustration with delays or outcomes in medical care is not uncommon, the GMA maintains that such emotions must be channeled through lawful, institutional processes.
