The spokesperson for the Ministry of Health, Tony Goodman, has emphasised that health facilities must prioritise stabilising patients before referring them elsewhere, even in situations where emergency units are overwhelmed.

Speaking on Ghana Yensom on Accra 100.5 FM with host Chief Jerry Forson, Mr. Goodman addressed growing concerns about how some hospitals handle emergency cases when faced with high patient numbers.

According to him, there have been instances where a health worker is left to manage multiple emergency cases at the same time.

In such situations, some facilities, after assessing the pressure on staff and resources, direct additional patients to other hospitals that may have fewer cases.

However, he stressed that before any referral is made, the patient must first be stabilised.

“Even if the patient is on the floor, stabilise them first,” he stated, underscoring that the Ministry’s policy on emergency care is clear and must be adhered to by all health facilities.

Mr. Goodman explained that stabilising a patient before referral ensures their condition does not deteriorate during transfer to another hospital.

He noted that while overcrowding and limited personnel can make emergency care challenging, the safety and immediate medical needs of patients must always come first.

He further indicated that the Ministry of Health takes such matters seriously and thoroughly reviews reports before taking action.

“When issues come up, we must carefully verify whether the narration is accurate before responding.

If you do not examine the facts properly and take action hastily, it could lead to backlash,” he added.