The Central Regional Health Directorate of the Ghana Health Service has launched an investigation into a reported maternal death at the Kasoa Mother and Child Hospital, as new details emerge about delays in referral from a private facility.
In a press release dated April 29, the Directorate confirmed it had constituted a multidisciplinary investigative committee to conduct a “thorough, objective, and transparent review” of the circumstances surrounding the incident.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the bereaved family… the death of a mother is a profoundly painful event, and we treat this matter with the utmost seriousness,” the statement said.
Referral delay under scrutiny
Sources at the hospital say the deceased was initially admitted at Sanford World Clinic, where complications were detected.
According to the hospital administrator, standard protocol required an immediate referral once the condition worsened. However, the patient allegedly remained at the private facility for five days as her condition deteriorated.
“When the referral was eventually made, there was no prior enquiry or communication to confirm readiness on our side,” the administrator revealed.
‘No bed’ claim clarified
Addressing claims that the patient was turned away due to lack of beds, the administrator explained that while the designated ward was initially full, a discharge created space, allowing the patient to be admitted upon arrival.
This clarification directly challenges circulating reports suggesting the patient was denied care due to capacity constraints.
Investigation underway
The Health Directorate says the investigative team includes representatives from the Cape Coast Teaching Hospital, Trauma and Specialist Hospital, the Regional Coordinating Council, and the Attorney-General’s office.
Findings from the probe will be made public upon completion, with authorities emphasising accountability, patient safety, and measures to prevent future occurrences.
“We respectfully appeal for calm and urge the public to allow the investigative process to proceed without interference,” the statement added.
