Tempers have flared up at the Tamale Teaching Hospital as doctors have grounded their tools, declaring an indefinite suspension of emergency and outpatient services.
Their decision follows what they describe as disrespectful comments made by the Minister of Health during a recent visit, along with poor working conditions that they say are putting patients and professionals at risk.
In a strongly-worded statement issued after an emergency meeting on Tuesday, members of the Doctors’ Association of Tamale Teaching Hospital (DATTH) made it clear that they will not return to duty at the General OPD, Antenatal, Specialist, and Paediatrics clinics until their concerns are addressed.
The doctors say the situation reached a breaking point after Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh’s visit on April 22, 2025.
According to them, his comments during the tour were unfair and damaging, shifting blame to frontline workers without acknowledging the severe resource shortages they are battling daily.
“We found the Minister’s comments deeply insulting. We feel our professionalism and commitment have been undermined,” the doctors said, demanding public apologies from the Minister and Tamale North MP, Alhassan Sayibu Suhuyini.
They are also calling out media outlets that, in their view, twisted the facts and misrepresented what happened during the visit. Until the media involved retract and apologise, the association says it will not engage with them.
While inpatient care continues for those already admitted, the doctors warned that any staff member who feels unsafe or disrespected while working will have the right to step away from their post.
At the core of the doctors’ protest is not just the issue of dignity, but also an urgent need for improvement in hospital infrastructure, medical equipment, and essential supplies.
The doctors insist that sustainable healthcare can’t be delivered without tools like oxygen, sterilisation machines, diagnostic systems, and a reliable supply of water and electricity.
They are calling for immediate action, not just words.
“If nothing changes soon, we’ll be forced to reconsider how we continue offering care. This is about safety, respect, and the future of healthcare at TTH,” the statement said.
The standoff has sparked public concern, especially in the Northern Region where the hospital is a key referral center. All eyes are now on the government’s next move.
