The Ghana Medical Association (GMA) has voiced serious concerns regarding issues of alcohol misuse, drug abuse, and instances of sexual misconduct among some members.
The Association’s President, Dr. Frank Serebour highlighted that such behaviour put patient care at risk, as affected doctors continue to work daily.
Speaking at the GMA’s annual general meeting, Dr. Serebour noted that the association is facing multiple lawsuits over allegations of medical and professional negligence, underscoring the urgent need for action to correct these issues.
“We have some health personnel involved in alcoholism and drug abuse, which impacts their quality of life,” he said.
He added that there have been severe cases of sexual harassment by health workers, with many complaints still under review by the Medical and Dental Council.
Dr. Serebour further expressed concern over rising legal actions against health facilities, noting that outcomes often reflect poorly on the profession.
He added that; “In some cases, we are left off the hook simply because the victims of our unprofessionalism choose to blame the witches and wizards instead of taking on the system.”
He also criticised certain unprofessional practices like chronic lateness, absenteeism, and insufficient work hours, questioning if professionalism is diminishing in the health sector.
“Is there an overwhelming focus on greed and selfishness? Some workers arrive at 9:00 a.m. and leave by noon, expecting to be paid for a full day,” he remarked.
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