The role of nurses and healthcare workers in society cannot be overstated. They are often the first point of contact for patients seeking medical care, and their attitudes can significantly impact people’s perceptions and trust in healthcare institutions.
However, concerns over unprofessional behaviour among some health workers have resurfaced, prompting the Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, to address the issue head-on.
Speaking at a cholera sensitization program at the Winneba Government Hospital, the minister did not hold back in expressing his concerns over reports of nurses and other health professionals mistreating patients.
While acknowledging the dedication and professionalism of the majority, he cautioned against the actions of a “few bad nuts” whose negative attitudes discourage people from seeking medical care.
“We have fantastic and very professional health workers, but there are a few bad nuts amongst them, especially the way some of you handle patients.
Sometimes, you will be surprised to hear that somebody (especially the aged) may be sick. If you ask him or her to go to the hospital, he will say the nurse will insult me or shout at me,” he stated.
His remarks highlight a growing concern among many Ghanaians, particularly the elderly, who feel disrespected or dismissed when they visit health facilities.
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Stories of patients being scolded, ignored, or treated with impatience have led to some preferring private hospitals over government facilities, despite the financial burden. The minister emphasized how such behaviour negatively affects attendance at government hospitals.
“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,” he added.
His appeal was not just a warning but a call for self-reflection among healthcare workers. While he clarified that the government was not out to “come after somebody,” he stressed that patient dignity and comfort must be prioritized at all times.
“Irrespective of the level of provocation, we expect you to be very professional. It’s an appeal to the few bad nuts that are amongst you. Some of these things I will take seriously. It doesn’t mean that we are going to come after somebody, but it’s important for us to protect our patients and also make them feel comfortable,” he urged.
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