The Ministry of Health has officially received the investigative report into the “medical kalabule” scandal, which involves alleged unethical practices and extortion schemes at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital and Korle Bu Teaching Hospital.

Representing the Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, the Deputy Minister, Professor Dr Grace Ayensu-Danquah, received the committee’s findings, marking what officials described as a decisive step toward restoring accountability within the country’s healthcare system.

The committee found that a medical officer violated the Ghana Health Service Code of Conduct by directly accepting money from a patient for a surgical item required for an amputation.

The report also cited an improper payment in US dollars to a supplier, which breached Bank of Ghana regulations.

Beyond the individual breach, the committee identified broader systemic challenges affecting the availability of neurosurgical implants and related consumables.

It noted that financial constraints at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital have limited the facility’s ability to stock critical implants, resulting in situations where some patients were asked to purchase the items directly from private suppliers before undergoing surgery.

However, after examining the evidence presented, the committee concluded that allegations of deliberate collusion, commonly referred to as “medical kalabule” — between doctors and suppliers could not be substantiated.

To prevent future occurrences and strengthen transparency within the health sector, the committee proposed a range of reforms. These include strengthening complaint management systems in hospitals, introducing orientation programmes on legal and ethical standards for medical personnel, and ensuring proper documentation and cataloguing of neurosurgical procedures and implants.

The committee also recommended establishing a ring-fenced implant revolving fund and developing a clear policy to regulate intramural practice in public hospitals.

Receiving the report, Professor Grace Ayensu-Danquah commended the committee for its thorough and independent work, emphasising that the Ministry remains committed to upholding the highest standards of transparency, accountability, and professionalism in Ghana’s health sector.

She assured the public that the Ministry would carefully review the findings and take the necessary actions to address the issues identified.

The Ministry of Health reaffirmed its commitment to implementing appropriate measures to strengthen governance, procurement processes, and accountability within health facilities, while ensuring that patients continue to receive safe, ethical, and quality healthcare services across the country.