Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has expressed deep concern over the deplorable state of the Tamale Teaching Hospital, describing it as “quite disheartening.”
He made these remarks during an unannounced visit to the facility, accompanied by members of the media, a visit that has since led to the dismissal of the hospital’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Adam Atiku.
The visit followed public outrage over the death of a patient, allegedly due to negligence by hospital staff.The incident involved the unavailability of a critical medical procedure, prompting the Minister to personally assess the situation on the ground.
According to Mr. Akandoh, the hospital lacks essential diagnostic equipment, including Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Computerized Tomography (CT) scanners—both of which have been out of service for the past seven years.
He described the situation as alarming and unacceptable, noting that no meaningful steps have been taken to repair or replace the equipment.
The minister appealed to community leaders and stakeholders to take an active interest in resolving the hospital’s challenges.
“The facility is not just for the health professionals working here; it serves all of us. It is important that we all contribute to its maintenance and, if possible, its upgrading,” he said.
He assured the people of Tamale that the government is committed to addressing the issues at the facility.
“We’ll do our best, but we’ll need everyone’s support. I implore the good people of Tamale and its environs to continue having faith in the region’s health professionals and in the Tamale Teaching Hospital. Let’s cooperate with them and show them respect so they can also give off their best,” he stated.
Story by: Salomey Barnor