Ghana’s health workers want legislation on violence against them
Dr Ken Sagoe, the Chief Executive Officer of the Tamale Teaching Hospital, has appealed to Parliament to consider enacting laws on violence against health personnel to ensure that health workers operated in an atmosphere of peace.
He said violent attacks on doctors and other health personnel especially those operating in the Tamale Teaching Hospital was appalling and called for on laws that would protect them.
Dr Sagoe made the appeal on Wednesday at a day’s symposium organised by the Health Services Workers’ Union as part of their health service week celebration.
He said in parts of Europe there were legislation protecting doctors and other health personnel against violence of any sort, which should be replicated in Ghana to ensure maximum healthcare delivery.
Dr Sagoe advised the union executives to provide voice for patients and other clients of health institutions so that the public would regain confidence in the health sector.
“Unions should address issues of quality healthcare provided to patients and other clients at the hospitals,” he said.
Madam Theresa Nadia Abuga, Head of Gender desk of the TUC, said it was important for unionists to monitor and ensure that policy guidelines of the Ghana Health Service (GHS) and the performance appraisal reports were completed for workers in the health sector to enable them qualify for promotions.
Mr. Iddrisu Tanko, said better conditions of service goes with swift response to healthcare delivery and stressed the importance of health personnel to accord patients the necessary courtesies so as the build a strong relationship with clients.
Source: GNA