The Ministry of Health has officially received the investigative report into the “medical kalabule” scandal, which involves alleged unethical practices and extortion schemes involving the Greater Accra Regional Hospital and Korle Bu Teaching Hospital.
Representing the Minister for Health, Hon. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, Deputy Minister Prof. Dr Grace Ayensu-Danquah received the committee’s findings, marking a decisive step toward restoring accountability within the nation’s healthcare system.
The Committee found that a medical officer violated the Ghana Health Service Code of Conduct by directly accepting money from a patient for a surgical item needed for an amputation. The report also cited an improper payment in US dollars to a supplier, breaching Bank of Ghana rules.
Beyond the individual breach, the Committee identified broader systemic challenges affecting the availability of neurosurgical implants and related consumables. Financial constraints at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital, it noted, have limited the facility’s ability to stock critical implants, leading to situations where some patients were asked to purchase the items directly from private suppliers before undergoing surgery.
However, after examining the evidence presented, the Committee concluded that allegations of deliberate collusion, commonly referred to as “medical kalabule”, between doctors and suppliers could not be substantiated.
To prevent future occurrences and strengthen transparency within the health sector, the Committee proposed a range of reforms. These include strengthening complaint management systems in hospitals, introducing orientation programmes on legal and ethical standards for medical personnel, and ensuring proper documentation and cataloguing of neurosurgical procedures and implants. It also recommended establishing a ring-fenced implant revolving fund and developing a clear policy to regulate intramural practice in public hospitals.
Receiving the report, Prof. Grace Ayensu-Danquah commended the Committee for its thorough and independent work, emphasising that the Ministry remains committed to upholding the highest standards of transparency, accountability and professionalism in Ghana’s health sector. She assured the public that the Ministry will carefully review the findings and take the necessary actions to address the issues identified.
The Ministry of Health reaffirmed its commitment to implementing appropriate measures to strengthen governance, procurement processes and accountability within health facilities, while ensuring that patients continue to receive safe, ethical and quality healthcare services across the country.
