Ghana Medical Association laments rising alcohol abuse and sexual misconduct among members

The Ghana Medical Association (GMA) has expressed worry over what it described as the decline in professionalism among members, citing alcohol abuse, drug abuse and instances of sexual misconduct by members.

The Association lamented that chronic lateness, absenteeism, and insufficient work hours have become rampant among members, stating that these acts put patient care at risk.

“Is professionalism in the health sector dwindling? Is there so much focus on greed and selfishness. Recently, the junior doctors held various forums, indicating that we are bullying them. Is it true?

“But at least, all of us can attest to the escalation of lateness to duty, absenteeism, poor documentation, and also not dedicating enough time to our employers. People walk into the hospitals at 9am by 12 noon they are walking out, you ask them they say they are done and yet they expect to be paid for working 8 hours at least in a day.

“We have some health personnel involved in alcoholism, drug misuse and drug abuse, which affects their quality of life,” he said.

Speaking at the GMA’s Annual General Meeting on November 11, the President, Dr. Frank Serebour noted that currently, there are multiple lawsuits against the Association over allegations of medical and professional negligence, underscoring the urgent need for action to correct these issues.

He added that there have been several cases of sexual harassment by health workers, with many complaints still under review by the Medical and Dental Council, a situation he says breeds poor reputation for the profession.

He added that; “In some cases, we are left off the hook simply because the victims of our unprofessionalism choose to blame the witches and wizards instead of taking on the system.”

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