John Dramani Mahama has issued a strong directive to health facilities across the country, warning that no patient should be denied emergency care under any circumstances.
The President’s comments follow the death of 29-year-old Charles Amissah, who was reportedly turned away by three major hospitals in Accra after being told there were no available beds.
Addressing the nation on Friday, February 27, President Mahama said the practice popularly described as the “no bed” syndrome is unacceptable and must end immediately.
“You do not need to have a comfortable bed to save a patient. No patient must be turned away from any health facility they report to,” he stated.
Free Primary Healthcare Rollout
President Mahama announced that government will fully roll out a free primary healthcare programme this year. The initiative is expected to remove financial barriers at the primary care level, where most patients first seek medical attention.
He explained that the programme will also focus on prevention, early screening, and health promotion, particularly targeting non-communicable diseases.
Expansion of Specialist Care
The President further disclosed plans to scale up the Ghana Medical Trust Fund and expand access to advanced cardiac services. Cardiac catheterisation services will be strengthened at Tamale Teaching Hospital, Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, and Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital.
According to him, the move will reduce the need for overseas referrals and position Ghana as a hub for specialised medical care within the sub-region.
New Guidelines to End ‘No Bed’ Syndrome
President Mahama has directed the Ministry of Health to develop and issue clear guidelines to eliminate the practice of refusing patients due to bed shortages. He stressed that emergency cases must be handled immediately, even if facilities are operating under pressure.
To further increase capacity, the President announced that Phase Two of the Greater Accra Regional Hospital project will be implemented. The expansion is expected to increase bed capacity and enhance service delivery at one of the country’s major referral centres.
He maintained that access to quality healthcare remains a priority for his administration and assured the public that concrete steps are being taken to prevent similar tragedies in the future.