The Head of Department at the Accident and Emergency Ward of the Tamale Teaching Hospital (TTH), who was at the center of a heated confrontation with the Minister of Health during his surprise visit to the health facility is reportedly receiving threats.

According to the Ghana Medical Association (GMA), Dr Valentine Akwulpwa has been subjected to “significant risk”, cyberbullying and online harassment since footage of the incident went viral.

The GMA expressed concern that the entire incident has placed the hospital staff at risk, not only of potential physical harm but also of psychological trauma, asserting that the minister’s actions resembled a “public trial”.

“The ill-informed media audit of the death of the patient raises serious issues of breach of patient confidentiality, exposes the facility to medico-legal risks and prejudges the issue even before the matter is duly investigated. Indeed, the doctors have already been tried in the court of public opinion.

“The head of the Emergency Unit, has already received threats and cyber bullying putting him and other staff at risk of physical harm and psychological trauma,” parts of the statement released on April 23, 2025, said.

The association warned that the continued vilification of health workers could pose serious danger to the country’s health sector, potentially demoralizing the staff and creating divisions between the public and the healthcare system.

“These acts, if continued, have the tendency of demoralizing committed workers and reducing public confidence in the health system,” the GMA stressed.

Although acknowledging the concerns raised by the minister and the bereaved family over possible medical negligence, the GMA, as the main body representing medical professionals in Ghana, however maintained that the minister should have followed due procedures and constructively engaged with the staff at the facility to amicably address the pressing issues surrounding the patient’s death.

“While the Association recognizes concerns raised by relatives of the patient and the Minister and MP, there exists clearly laid down processes and procedures to resolve concerns or grievances rather than these circuses of public engagement which often only whips up public sentiments without addressing the underlying issues or providing any lasting solutions.”

Meanwhile, the GMA has called on the management of Tamale Teaching Hospital (TTH) to support their staff, ensuring their well-being and prioritising their safety.

Read the full statement below:





MAG/AME

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