Accra, Ghana – Following the findings of an investigative committee into alleged unethical practices at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital (GARH), several recommendations have been put forward to enhance accountability, standardize procedures, and safeguard patient care. The recommendations respond to lapses identified in the hospital’s neurosurgery unit, highlighted in a special report by The Fourth Estate.
Background:
The Ministry of Health established a seven-member investigative committee to probe claims of improper patient payments, procurement irregularities, and the use of informal supply channels. The committee examined both procedural and ethical issues, including the handling of surgical implants, accessories, and consumables, and provided actionable recommendations to prevent recurrence.
Key Recommendations of the Investigative Committee:
Accountability Measures:
Dr. Stephen Marboah Kusi should face disciplinary procedures in line with due process and natural justice.
The US dollar payment transaction involving Axis Pharmacy for surgical items should be referred to appropriate regulatory institutions for further scrutiny.
Staff Orientation and Training
The Ministry of Health should institute mandatory orientation programs for neurosurgeons and other staff on legal, ethical, and policy frameworks affecting the supply of implants, accessories, equipment, and consumables.
Hospital complaint management systems should be strengthened to provide timely and appropriate feedback to patients.
Standardization of Procedures:
Proper cataloguing of neurosurgical items and procedures should be integrated into hospital documentation to ensure transparency, accountability, and uniformity.
Policy Development:
The Ministry of Health should develop a formal policy on intramural practice at GARH and other hospitals to ensure consistent and accountable delivery of patient care.
Consideration should be given to establishing a ring-fenced Implant Revolving Fund to manage neurosurgical supplies effectively.
Procurement Reforms:
All supplies of implants, accessories, equipment, and consumables should strictly follow established hospital procurement processes.
GARH and other hospitals should establish formal contractual arrangements with medical suppliers to prevent ad hoc arrangements.
