Video of Ex-GHS boss slamming medical trips abroad resurfaces amid Vice President’s plans

Following the announcement that the Vice President, Prof Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, is set to be flown abroad for medical treatment, a viral video of former Director-General of the Ghana Health Service, Prof Agyeman Badu Akosa, has resurfaced online.

In the video, he strongly opposes political appointees seeking medical care abroad.

Over the years, it has become common for politicians, including the President and senior government appointees, to seek medical treatment overseas, usually in Europe, whenever they are unwell.

Speaking in an interview in the widely shared video, the outspoken medical practitioner condemned this practice, urging politicians to equip medical facilities across the country to international standards so they can receive treatment locally.

“Why should any public officer, politician, or senior public official be allowed to travel outside to seek healthcare? Do they disrespect those of us who are medically qualified professionals in this country? If you look at the budget for external medical treatment, why are we not prepared to ensure that there are MRIs in every region, that there are CT scans?” he questioned.

Prof Badu Akosa further stated: “Whether you like it or not, healthcare is expensive, and when they go out there, they pay through their nostrils. So why can’t we develop our healthcare system here? If the President falls ill and is admitted to the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital or the University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC), what will happen? Are there no competent doctors to take care of them? There are.”

On Sunday, March 30, 2024, the Presidency’s Communications Directorate released a statement confirming that the Vice President attended the University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC) on Saturday following an unexpected health incident.

According to the statement, signed by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Member of Parliament and Minister for Government Communications, medical experts have advised that the Vice President seek further treatment abroad to ensure her full recovery.

“We extend our best wishes to the Vice President for a speedy recovery,” the statement concluded.