Call off the strike and let's negotiate - Health Minister tells striking TTH staff

The Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has made an appeal. He urged medical doctors and health professionals at the Tamale Teaching Hospital (TTH) to end their strike. He wants them to return to negotiations for patients' sake.

Dr. Atik Adam, the CEO of TTH, was dismissed by the minister. This followed allegations of mismanagement and negligence linked to a patient's death.

The dismissal came after the minister's unannounced visit to the hospital on Wednesday. He wanted to assess conditions there.

On Thursday, April 24, the minister spoke to the media. He acknowledged staff concerns but emphasized his commitment to their welfare.

"My humble appeal is that I care about your interests," he said. "Let’s call off the strike and regroup."

Mr. Akandoh also highlighted the need for better resource management in healthcare. This includes procurement and maintenance of medical equipment.

He noted that while government invests in hospitals, a sustainable approach is necessary.

"It’s not sustainable for the government to keep donating equipment," he cautioned. "When it becomes obsolete, we seek more funds for maintenance or replacement."

The Ghana Medical Association (GMA) condemned the minister's actions at TTH. They have demanded an apology from him.