TTH doctors condemn open confrontation between member, sector minister
The doctors Association of the Tamale Teaching Hospital (DATTH) has condemned the open confrontation between the Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, and the Head of the hospital’s Accident and Emergency Department, Dr Valentine Akwulpwa, during the minister’s unannounced visit to the facility.
The association described the incident as regrettable, unprofessional, and a gross misrepresentation of their colleague's actions and intentions.
A widely circulated video showing a verbal exchange between the minister and the doctor has sparked public criticism and widespread media commentary, which DATTH insists was not only unfair but also taken out of context.
Statement
In a statement issued in Tamale on Wednesday, the association clarified that the doctor in question was engaged in a professional discussion with the minister concerning the management of a referred patient.
It said Dr Akwulpwa was explaining the situation and logistical challenges faced by the department when the discussions unexpectedly escalated into tense exchanges.
“Our colleague has served with distinction, working under immense pressure to deliver life-saving care.
The portrayal of this incident in the media is unjust and has caused unwarranted damage to his reputation,” the statement added.
Condemnation
It further condemned the public interrogation of the doctor, labelling it a violation of both professional protocols and patient confidentiality.
The association said that such confrontations did not reflect the collaborative spirit required to improve healthcare delivery.
“We expect government officials and stakeholders to engage constructively with frontline health workers.
This unfortunate incident sets a bad precedent and undermines the morale of dedicated professionals,” it added.
Background
The minister last Tuesday paid an unannounced visit to the facility in Tamale to assess its current situation as the only referral hospital in the northern part of the country.
Mr Akandoh expressed dissatisfaction with the deteriorating state of healthcare delivery at the facility, with several essential medical equipment reportedly non-functional.
He further discovered what he described as disturbing conditions at the hospital, such as broken-down medical equipment, unsanitary washrooms and general mismanagement of the hospital’s infrastructure.
Some of the equipment had broken down for about six years now, compelling patients to resort to private facilities for services at exorbitant fees.
Moments after the visit, the Chief Executive Officer of the hospital, Dr Atik Adam, was dismissed by President John Mahama.
