GMA raises concern over naming of doctors in Charles Amissah death report, calls for focus on systemic gaps

The Ghana Medical Association (GMA) has expressed concern over the publication of doctors’ names in the Ministerial Investigative Committee’s report into the death of Charles Amissah, warning that the development risks shifting public attention away from longstanding systemic failures within Ghana’s emergency healthcare system.

In a statement addressed to members and dated May 7, 2026, the Association acknowledged the findings of the committee report, which reportedly identified major weaknesses and gaps in emergency healthcare delivery across the country.

According to the GMA, although the report highlighted critical structural and institutional deficiencies, public discussions and media coverage have instead focused heavily on the health professionals named in the document.

The Association argued that this development has redirected public criticism toward individual healthcare workers rather than broader systemic issues affecting emergency care services in Ghana.

“The publication of the names of health workers who were on duty during the unfortunate incident has caused media discussions to focus attention and attacks on these named individuals rather than the wider systemic issues,” the statement noted.

The statement was jointly signed by GMA President Ernest Yorke and General Secretary Richard Selormey.

The Association revealed that it would immediately begin processes to obtain an official copy of the investigative report in order to thoroughly assess its findings and recommendations before determining its next steps.

“The GMA will immediately commence processes to secure an official copy of the report in order to properly review its findings and recommendations to guide our next course of action,” the statement said.

The death of Charles Amissah sparked widespread public outrage and renewed concerns about the state of emergency healthcare services in Ghana. In response, the Health Minister established an investigative committee to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident and identify possible lapses in care delivery.

Although the Ministry of Health has not yet publicly released the full report, the GMA confirmed that the committee recommended urgent reforms aimed at improving emergency healthcare systems and addressing long-standing operational challenges.

The Association stressed that while it fully supports professional accountability and high ethical standards within the medical profession, any disciplinary measures arising from the report must follow established legal and professional procedures.

According to the GMA, disciplinary processes involving healthcare workers should be conducted fairly, transparently, and based on evidence while respecting due process.

“We support accountability and the highest standards of professional practice, but any disciplinary process must be fair, transparent, evidence-based, and consistent with due process,” the Association stated.

The GMA also assured members that it would provide legal, professional, and institutional support to any healthcare worker who becomes subject to disciplinary proceedings linked to the case.

“We will provide appropriate support to any member who may be subject to disciplinary proceedings arising from this matter, in line with our mandate to protect the welfare, rights and professional integrity of our members,” the statement added.

Additionally, the Association urged doctors and healthcare professionals across the country to remain calm and avoid engaging in speculation or public commentary that could compromise investigations or damage the reputation of colleagues involved in the matter.

The GMA further pledged to engage relevant authorities and affected healthcare workers while continuing to update members on future developments related to the investigation and proposed reforms.

“Let us remain united, focused, and committed to improving emergency care in Ghana while safeguarding justice and fairness for all health professionals,” the statement concluded.