ACCRA — An investigative report into the August 17 assault incident at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital (GARH), also known as Ridge Hospital, has found that inadequate security, non-functional diagnostic equipment, and severe staff shortages contributed to the public confrontation. The findings were presented to Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh by the Ridge Assault Investigative Committee.
The committee’s findings confirm that while a verbal altercation took place between a patient’s companion, Ralph St. Williams, and hospital staff, there was no confirmed physical assault. The alleged victim, a rotation nurse, reported pain in her hand but medical records showed no fractures or dislocations.
However, the report highlights critical issues at the hospital’s Emergency Department. All imaging equipment, including X-ray, CT scan, and MRI machines, were found to be non-functional, forcing patients to seek services elsewhere and causing significant treatment delays. The committee also noted that security at the Emergency Department was “grossly inadequate,” with only one security officer per 12-hour shift.
The report further revealed a severe shortage of medical personnel. The Emergency Department had only one medical officer per shift in August, and 34 nursing staff positions were vacant without replacements, straining the hospital’s capacity. The committee recommended increasing security and staffing, repairing diagnostic equipment, and strengthening the nation’s healthcare system to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
