Ministry of Health to investigate allegations of patient exploitation at Ridge Hospital
The Ministry of Health has announced plans to launch a formal investigation into allegations of patient exploitation at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital, popularly known as Ridge Hospital, following a recent investigative publication by The Fourth Estate.
In a press statement issued in response to the report, titled “Medical Kalabule: Inside Ridge Hospital’s System That Exploits Patients,” the Ministry acknowledged receipt of the allegations and described the revelations as deeply concerning and warranting immediate attention.
The investigative piece, which has garnered significant attention on social media and across traditional media platforms, alleged systemic practices within the hospital that impose undue financial and administrative burdens on patients seeking medical care.
Reacting to the development, the Ministry expressed sympathy for patients and relatives who may have been affected by unprofessional conduct within the country’s healthcare facilities.
“The Ministry sympathises with patients and relatives who may have been subjected to any form of unprofessional conduct in any health facility across the country,” the statement said.
The Ministry further reaffirmed government’s commitment to improving access to quality healthcare and reducing the stress and financial challenges faced by Ghanaians in the course of seeking medical attention.
“Government remains committed to reducing the stress and financial burden patients face in accessing healthcare,” it added.
While noting that it was surprised by some of the issues raised in the publication, the Ministry emphasised that the allegations were serious and would not be treated lightly.
“We are, however, deeply concerned and surprised by some of the revelations contained in the report. In view of this, the Ministry considers the issues raised as serious and deserving of thorough examination,” the statement continued.
As part of measures to address the matter, the Ministry disclosed that it is in the process of setting up a special investigative committee to examine the claims made in the report.
“Accordingly, the Ministry of Health is in the process of constituting an investigative committee to look into the matter,” the statement said.
The committee will be mandated to conduct a comprehensive review of the allegations and submit its findings within a strict timeline.
“The committee is expected to submit its report within fourteen (14) working days,” the Ministry announced.
“The Ministry expects the full cooperation of all relevant stakeholders, including The Fourth Estate, to help unravel the facts and provide additional details necessary to ensure accountability and improve service delivery within our health system,” the statement concluded.
The press release was signed by Tony Goodman, Spokesperson and Head of Health Training Institutions at the Ministry of Health.
