Return to duty in the interest of patients – Suspended KATH CEO to staff

Suspended Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr. Paa Kwesi Baidoo has urged striking health workers to resume work in the interest of patients.

The appeal comes amid an ongoing industrial action at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH), which has disrupted healthcare services and raised concerns among patients and their families.

In a letter dated June 8, 2026, and addressed to all staff members of the hospital, Dr. Baidoo thanked workers for the support and solidarity shown following his suspension. He, however, appealed to them to return to their posts and allow healthcare services to continue uninterrupted.

According to him, while he appreciates the concerns expressed by staff, the welfare of patients and the broader national interest must take precedence over all other considerations.

“I need you all to return back to duty in the supreme interest of Ghanaians and our valued patients, whilst I defer the outcome and directions to the supreme wisdom of the Hon. Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh (MP), and the Board of KATH,” the letter stated.

Dr. Baidoo further indicated that he would respect any decision taken by the appropriate authorities regarding his suspension and future at the hospital.

He also reaffirmed his commitment to public service, stating that he remains dedicated to supporting the vision and objectives of the government.

The appeal comes as doctors at the facility continue a strike action that began on June 6. Members of the Komfo Anokye Doctors’ Association (KADA) announced a total withdrawal of services, citing concerns over persistent congestion at the hospital’s Emergency Department and the suspension of the hospital’s Chief Executive Officer.

The industrial action has attracted national attention due to the strategic role played by KATH within Ghana’s healthcare system. As the country’s second-largest teaching hospital, the facility serves as a major referral centre for patients from the Ashanti Region and several other regions across the middle and northern parts of the country.

The situation appeared poised to worsen after nurses and midwives at the hospital indicated their intention to join the strike, raising fears of further disruptions to healthcare delivery.

In response, the National Labour Commission (NLC) directed the doctors to immediately call off the strike, arguing that the industrial action did not comply with procedures outlined under Sections 162 and 163 of the Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651).

The Commission subsequently invited representatives of the parties involved to a hearing scheduled for June 10 in an effort to find a resolution to the dispute.

Beyond the current impasse, healthcare professionals have repeatedly highlighted challenges facing the hospital, particularly overcrowding at its Emergency Department. Some worker groups have linked the situation to infrastructure deficits and delays in fully operationalising nearby facilities, including the Sewua Hospital.

As efforts continue to resolve the dispute, patients and healthcare stakeholders are hoping for a swift return to normal services to ensure uninterrupted medical care at one of Ghana’s most important health institutions.