We’re on Strike Because The Minister’s Letter Lacked Modalities-KATH Doctors

Doctors at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) in Kumasi have declared an industrial strike over a directive from the Ministry of Health regarding the suspension of CEO Dr Paa Kwesi Baidoo on emergency bed management.

Dr. Bernard Hammond, Executive Member of the Komfo Anokye Doctors Association and Middle Zone Chairman of the Ghana Medical Association, said the strike was triggered by a letter signed by Health Minister Hon. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh.

According to Dr. Hammond, the letter failed to provide answers or modalities on how to manage the facility when emergency beds are full.

The strike follows an earlier announcement by KATH CEO Dr. Paa Kwesi Baidoo that the hospital would reject new referrals to the emergency unit due to bed congestion.

Despite the industrial action, Dr. Hammond affirmed that no patient has been rejected at the emergency wards since the strike began.

He said doctors are prioritizing patients in critical condition.

“Even though we are on strike, we are paying much attention to patients in critical condition,” Dr. Hammond told newsmen.

However, Outpatient Department (OPD) services remain closed.

Some patients at the OPD department shared their frustrations with reporters over the disruption caused by the strike.