Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh has issued a strong warning to nurses and healthcare workers, stressing that unprofessional and rude behavior toward patients will not be tolerated.
Speaking at a cholera sensitization program at the Winneba Government Hospital on Friday, February 14, Akandoh expressed concern that such behavior discourages individuals, particularly the elderly, from seeking medical care, even when they are in critical condition.
While recognizing the dedication and professionalism of the majority of healthcare workers, Akandoh pointed out that a small number of individuals tarnish the reputation of the profession by fostering an environment of fear and mistrust.
“We have fantastic and very professional health workers, but there are a few bad apples among them,” Akandoh said. “Sometimes, you will be surprised to hear that someone, especially the elderly, will refuse to go to the hospital because they fear the nurse will insult or shout at them.”
The minister emphasized that no matter the level of provocation, healthcare professionals must remain professional. He appealed directly to those exhibiting unprofessional conduct, warning that the ministry would take their behavior seriously.
“Some of these things I will take seriously. It doesn’t mean we are going to target anyone personally, but we must protect our patients and make them feel comfortable,” Akandoh stated.
He further highlighted that unprofessional behavior contributes to declining patient attendance at certain health facilities across the country, with some government facilities seeing lower attendance than private ones due to how patients are treated.
“It’s a fact, and we shouldn’t cover it up. We must expose it to ensure the right thing is done,” he said.
Akandoh also mentioned plans to implement stricter disciplinary actions for healthcare workers guilty of misconduct, while also working to improve the working conditions for nurses to help address the challenges they face.
