Accusations are flying as Ghana’s healthcare sector grapples with the persistent issue of power outages, locally known as “dumsor.” The President of the Ghana Medical Association (GMA), Dr. Frank Ankobea, has taken a firm stance against hospital management, deeming any excuse for dumsor unacceptable.
In a recent statement to the press, Dr. Ankobea emphasized the critical role hospitals play in saving lives and providing essential medical services to the public. He stressed that power disruptions in healthcare facilities could lead to dire consequences for patients, including interruptions to vital medical equipment and procedures.
The term “dumsor” has become synonymous with Ghana’s ongoing power challenges, which have plagued the nation for years. Despite efforts by successive governments to address the issue, intermittent power cuts continue to affect various sectors, including healthcare.
Dr. Ankobea urged hospital administrators to prioritize alternative power sources, such as generators and solar energy, to ensure uninterrupted healthcare services. He called on the government to provide necessary support to healthcare facilities to mitigate the impact of power outages on patient care.
The GMA president also demanded effective contingency plans from hospital management to handle emergencies during power disruptions. He emphasized that excuses related to poor resource management or infrastructure shortcomings are unacceptable when patients’ lives are at stake.
Reliable electricity supply is essential for hospitals, particularly in critical care units and operating theaters where uninterrupted power is crucial for patient safety. Dr. Ankobea highlighted the importance of investing in resilient energy infrastructure to safeguard healthcare services and protect patients’ well-being.
As Ghana continues to grapple with energy challenges, stakeholders in the healthcare sector are urged to work together to find sustainable solutions. Dr. Ankobea’s stance reflects the urgency of addressing the impact of power outages on healthcare delivery and emphasizes the need for concerted efforts to ensure reliable electricity supply for hospitals nationwide.
Source: Ghana web
