Minister of Health Urges Upholding Ethical Standards in Healthcare
Mr Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, the Minister of Health, has emphasized the importance of maintaining professional and ethical standards in healthcare service delivery across Ghana. His remarks were made during the 2025 Annual Conference of the Christian Health Association of Ghana (CHAG) held in Koforidua.
During his speech, the Minister called on health practitioners to avoid any form of discrimination against patients, regardless of whether they are receiving care in public or private facilities. He highlighted that fairness and patient safety should be at the core of all healthcare services.
“Treatment of patients with care, dignity, and respect has become my signature message since I took office as Minister,” he stated. “What we do behind the scenes is more important than what is publicly observed. We must work together to eliminate all forms of discrimination.”
The Minister also praised CHAG for its significant contributions to the health sector, especially in underserved communities. He noted that CHAG facilities have been a source of compassion and healing in many remote areas of Ghana.
“CHAG delivers over 30 percent of health services nationwide, which demonstrates your remarkable impact,” he said. “You are not just providers of care; you are custodians of faith, dignity, and humanity. Medicine is not only a science—it is also a ministry.”
Mr Akandoh assured CHAG of the government’s continued partnership and acknowledged existing challenges such as personnel placement and salary delays. He emphasized that the Ministry is committed to addressing these issues to improve the morale of healthcare workers.
“Clinical procedures may be followed meticulously, but the warm human connection—the essential element of healing—can sometimes be lost,” he added. “Every patient encounter must be a moment of compassion, dignity, and hope, not just a transaction.”
Focus on Ethical and Value-Driven Healthcare
This year’s conference brought together national health leaders, policymakers, and faith-based stakeholders to discuss ethical and value-driven approaches to healthcare. The event was themed: “Sustaining Christian Identity, Values, and Ethics in Health Systems Strengthening.” It also reviewed priorities for the Ministry of Health’s 2026–2029 Health Sector Medium-Term Development Plan.
Key discussions included responsible leadership, financial governance, effective resource management, and sustaining quality healthcare delivery within CHAG institutions. These topics were crucial in shaping the future of healthcare in Ghana, particularly in ensuring that ethical practices remain central to all operations.
Key Themes and Outcomes
The conference provided an opportunity for participants to reflect on the role of faith-based organizations in strengthening the health system. Some of the key themes discussed include:
- Ethical Leadership: Emphasizing the need for leaders to uphold integrity and transparency in decision-making.
- Financial Governance: Addressing the importance of sound financial management to ensure sustainability and efficiency in healthcare delivery.
- Resource Management: Exploring strategies to optimize the use of available resources to meet the needs of patients and staff.
- Quality Care: Focusing on maintaining high standards of care through continuous improvement and training.
Conclusion
The 2025 Annual Conference of CHAG served as a platform for meaningful dialogue among stakeholders in the healthcare sector. By reinforcing the importance of ethics, values, and compassion in healthcare, the event highlighted the critical role that faith-based organizations play in shaping a healthier future for Ghana.
Through collaboration and commitment, the government and health institutions can work together to ensure that every patient receives the care, dignity, and respect they deserve.