The Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has dismissed the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Tamale Teaching Hospital, Dr. Adam Atiku, with immediate effect. The decision was announced on Joy FM’s NewsNight on Tuesday evening.
According to Minister Akandoh, a formal letter has been sent to Dr. Atiku informing him of his removal. “We have thanked him for his services. We believe it’s time for someone else to take over as CEO,” Akandoh stated.
The dismissal comes on the heels of a recent incident at the hospital, where a patient died after allegedly being left unattended for several hours. Minister Akandoh visited the facility on Tuesday and expressed disappointment over the hospital’s management of equipment and resources.
“There were a lot of things I was not happy about. Equipment purchased by the government is being left unused because it hasn’t been maintained or replaced,” Akandoh said.
A three-member committee has been set up to investigate the circumstances surrounding the patient’s death. The committee is expected to present its report within two weeks.
When asked about Dr. Atiku’s response to the dismissal, Minister Akandoh said, “I don’t know yet” whether the former CEO would challenge the decision.
The Minister emphasized the importance of accountability in healthcare, stating, “When a life is lost, it is very important we all show concern, especially when people believe it could have been avoided.”
The Tamale Teaching Hospital incident has sparked public outcry, with many calling for swift investigations and reforms. The outcome of the investigation and the appointment of a new CEO are eagerly awaited.