The Ghana Medical Association (GMA) has expressed deep concern following the circulation of a viral video on social media showing disturbing scenes at the Emergency Unit of the Greater Accra Regional Hospital, Ridge, where health professionals were verbally and physically assaulted by a group of individuals, disrupting emergency services.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, August 19, the GMA condemned the “lawless acts of the perpetrators,” stressing that such actions endanger the lives of staff and hospital property.
The association described the incident as intolerable, warning against the rising trend of verbal and physical abuse of health workers. It called for an immediate end to this culture of impunity and urged the Ghana Police Service to take swift and decisive action to identify and prosecute those responsible.
While acknowledging that grievances had been raised by the lead individual involved, the GMA reminded the public that established procedures exist for addressing complaints without resorting to violence.
The association also expressed dissatisfaction with what it termed “the open and friendly engagement of the lead suspect by the Minister of Health,” cautioning that such conduct risks emboldening others to behave in a similar manner.
Additionally, the GMA called on Ridge Hospital management to initiate due processes to investigate the grievances and implement lasting solutions. It urged the hospital to provide medical and psychological support for affected staff to help them cope with the trauma of the incident.
To prevent future occurrences, the Association demanded enhanced security measures to protect health professionals in the line of duty. It also warned that if such senseless attacks continue, health workers may be compelled to exercise their rights under the Labour Act to withdraw from situations that pose serious risks to their lives, safety, or health.
The GMA concluded by stating that it is closely monitoring developments at the facility and may consider further action if necessary.
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