Resign if you can’t cope, Ghana will survive — Health Committee chair tells medical staff after Amissah probe
Dr. Mark Kurt Nawaane, the Chairman of Parliament’s Health Committee, has called on healthcare professionals who feel unable to handle the pressures of their job to step down. This statement follows a parliamentary investigation into the death of a patient, Charles Amissah.
“If you are a medical professional and you find the work exhausting, then you should probably resign. I mean it,” Nawaane stated. He emphasized that Ghana’s healthcare system relies on ethical conduct and professionalism.
His comments came after a three-member investigative team led by Agyeman Badu Akosah presented its findings to the parliamentary committee. The report proposed disciplinary measures against several health workers for alleged violations of professional duties in the handling of Amissah’s medical emergency.
Nawaane praised the investigative team for what he called a more open and transparent process, especially the decision to name the individuals involved in the case.
“As soon as we began talking about medical negligence and started mentioning names, I said thank God this is progress,” he remarked.
He compared this report to earlier investigations, which often focused on health facilities instead of individual accountability, describing the change as essential in addressing medical negligence.
“Now we are saying it’s not just about the facility. It’s about the people,” he added.
Ethics and professional conduct
The committee chair stressed that medical professionals must strictly follow ethical guidelines, including seeking help when faced with difficult cases.
“If you are willing to work, remember there are ethics. If you can’t handle something, call your fellow doctor or your senior,” he said.
These remarks come amid increasing public attention on healthcare standards in Ghana, with patient safety and accountability becoming major topics of discussion.
The committee’s recommendations are expected to guide further action by the relevant health authorities.
Editor:
Obiri-Yeboah
