The Ministry of Health has summoned the Chief Executive Officer of the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) following the hospital’s announcement of a temporary suspension of admissions at its Accident and Emergency Centre due to severe congestion.
The Ministry’s action follows concerns over reports that the country’s second-largest referral hospital halted the admission of new emergency cases for a 24-hour period — a move it says contradicts a standing directive from President John Dramani Mahama that no emergency patient should be turned away under any circumstances.
In a letter dated June 3, 2026, the Ministry directed the CEO to appear before the Health Minister by noon on June 4, 2026, to explain why disciplinary action should not be taken over the decision.
The controversy stems from a statement issued by KATH’s Public Affairs Unit indicating that the Accident and Emergency Centre had reached critical capacity and could no longer safely admit additional patients.
The hospital explained that the unit — originally designed to accommodate 37 patients — was overwhelmed, with 61 patients occupying the Orange, Yellow and Red critical care zones, while 34 others were awaiting attention.
Hospital authorities said the situation placed extreme pressure on staff, beds, and medical resources, forcing a temporary diversion of emergency cases to other facilities.
However, the Ministry of Health has questioned both the decision and its public communication, insisting it runs contrary to national emergency healthcare policy.
The issue was further highlighted in media discussions, including an interview on Channel One Television News, where the hospital’s Public Affairs Head defended the move, citing overcrowding and patient safety concerns.
The Ministry maintains that the presidential directive on emergency care remains binding on all public health facilities, regardless of operational constraints.
The outcome of the meeting between the KATH CEO and the Health Minister is expected to determine whether disciplinary action will be taken.
