The Ghana Medical Association (GMA) has expressed deep concern over issues of alcohol misuse, drug abuse, and instances of sexual misconduct among some medical professionals, warning that these behaviours compromise patient care.

Speaking at the GMA’s annual general meeting, Dr. Frank Serebour, President of the Association, emphasized that doctors affected by these issues continue to work, putting patient safety at risk.

He noted that the Association is currently facing multiple lawsuits related to alleged medical and professional negligence, underscoring the urgency of addressing these challenges.

“We have some health personnel involved in alcoholism and drug abuse, which impacts their quality of life,” Dr. Serebour stated, highlighting how these problems can impair professional conduct and decision-making.

He also revealed that there have been serious cases of sexual harassment involving health workers, with many complaints under review by the Medical and Dental Council.

Dr. Serebour voiced additional concern over the rising number of legal actions against health facilities, warning that the outcomes often cast a negative light on the profession.

“In some cases, we are let off the hook simply because the victims of our unprofessionalism choose to blame witches and wizards instead of holding the system accountable,” he said.

He further criticized unprofessional practices such as chronic lateness, absenteeism, and insufficient work hours, raising concerns about declining professionalism 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.

The GMA president call for reform and greater accountability within the health sector to restore trust and uphold high standards of care for patients across Ghana.