By Josephine Kekeli Amuzu
The Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akando, has strongly cautioned nurses and other healthcare professionals against engaging in unprofessional and disrespectful behaviour toward patients.
During a cholera awareness program at the Winneba Government Hospital, he expressed concern that such attitudes deter many individuals, even those in critical condition, from seeking medical care.
According to him, while the majority of healthcare workers are dedicated and compassionate, a small number exhibit poor attitudes that harm the profession’s reputation and foster fear and mistrust among patients.
“We have excellent and highly professional health workers, but a few individuals among them negatively impact the profession, particularly in how they treat patients. You would be surprised to hear that some people, especially the elderly, refuse to visit the hospital because they fear being shouted at or insulted by nurses.
Regardless of the provocation, professionalism is expected at all times. This is an appeal to the few individuals whose behaviour affects patient care. I take such matters seriously. While this does not mean we are launching a crackdown, it is essential to protect patients and ensure they feel comfortable,” he stated.
The minister stressed the importance of professionalism, urging healthcare workers to remain patient and respectful even under difficult circumstances.
He also pointed out that some health facilities have seen a significant decline in attendance due to how patients are treated.
“And it is one of the reasons why sometimes you go to some districts and the attendance or records at the government facility is lower than the private ones. It’s based on how you handle the patients. It’s a fact, and we shouldn’t cover it. We must expose it to ensure the right thing is done.”
Additionally, he hinted at the introduction of stricter disciplinary measures for those found guilty of misconduct while also assuring healthcare workers that efforts would be made to improve their working conditions to address some of their frustrations.
