The Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akando, has issued a stern warning to nurses and other healthcare workers who exhibit unprofessional and rude behavior toward patients.

Speaking at a cholera sensitisation program at the Winneba Government Hospital, the minister expressed concern that such conduct is discouraging many people from seeking medical attention, even when they are critically ill.

According to the minister, while most healthcare workers are dedicated and compassionate, a few "bad nuts" tarnish the profession with their poor attitudes, creating an environment of fear and mistrust among patients.

“We have fantastic and very professional health workers but there are few bad nuts amongst them, especially the way some of you handle patients. Sometimes you will be surprised to hear, that somebody may be sick, (especially the aged). If ask him or her to go to the hospital, he will say the nurse will insult me or shout at me. Irrespective of the level of provocation, we expect you to be very professional.

"It's an appeal to the few bad nuts that are amongst you. Some of these things , I will take it seriously. It doesn't mean that we are going to come after somebody but it's important for us to protect our patients and also make them feel comfortable," he said.

He emphasised the need for professionalism, urging healthcare workers to remain patient and courteous even in the face of extreme provocation.

The minister also argued that some health centers across the country have seen a sharp decline due to the treatments meted out to some of the patients.

"And it is one of the reasons sometimes you go to some districts and the attendants or records at the government facility is lower than the private ones. It's based on how you handle the patients. It's a fact and we shouldn't cover it. We must expose it to ensure the right thing is done," he added.

The minister hinted at stricter enforcement of disciplinary measures for those found guilty of misconduct, while also pledging to improve working conditions to address the frustrations some nurses face.