TTH doctors' demands are not far-fetched, an apology is justified, but ... - Minority

Dr. Kingsley Agyemang, a member of the Parliamentary Select Committee on Health, has spoken out. He urged the government to take doctors' grievances at Tamale Teaching Hospital (TTH) seriously. He also called on striking doctors to prioritize public health.

On April 24, Dr. Agyemang addressed the media. He described the doctors' demands as "not far-fetched." He emphasized that their concerns are justified due to difficult working conditions.

He stated, “When two elephants fight, it is the grass that suffers.” In this case, he said patients are the grass. He appealed to doctors to remain calm for the public's interest.

Dr. Agyemang noted that the doctors’ request for an apology from Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh is reasonable. This follows past incidents where TTH staff faced public attacks.

He believes an apology could help reconciliation and prevent future issues. “What the doctors are asking for is not far-fetched,” he reiterated.

The Parliamentary Select Committee on Health is aware of the striking doctors' concerns. Some issues have already been discussed in the national budget and are being addressed by the executive branch.

Doctors at TTH recently suspended all emergency and outpatient services indefinitely. They cited a hostile work environment and lack of basic medical supplies as reasons for their strike.

The Doctors’ Association of Tamale Teaching Hospital (DATTH) announced this decision after an emergency meeting on Tuesday. They will no longer provide services at several clinics following an incident during the Health Minister's visit on April 22, 2025.

They demanded apologies from both the Health Minister and Tamale North MP Alhassan Sayibu Suhuyini. These apologies should be directed to Dr. Valentine Akwulpwa, all medical staff, and specifically those in Accident and Emergency.

In response, the Health Minister has urged medical professionals at TTH to end their strike. He asked them to return to negotiations for patients' sake and overall healthcare improvement.