Accra: Chairman of Parliament's Health Committee, Mark Kurt Nawaane, is calling on families who lose loved ones because of Ghana's persistent 'no bed syndrome' to consider taking legal action against health facilities that deny emergency care. His comments come after reports that a hit-and-run victim was allegedly turned away by three major hospitals due to a lack of bed space, a case that has once again stirred public anger over emergency care failures.
According to Ghana Web, Dr Nawaane expressed his frustration while speaking to journalists on February 13, 2026. He urged families who are dissatisfied with the care of their relatives to pursue legal channels. He recommended filing formal complaints with regulatory bodies such as the Medical and Dental Council, the Health Facilities Regulatory Authority (HeFRA), and the NHIA, which he believes can address these grievances effectively.
Dr Nawaane emphasized that hospitals are expected to stabilize patients in emergencies before considering referrals. He noted that poor coordination among hospitals, particularly in urban areas with multiple facilities, exacerbates the issue. He criticized the lack of communication between hospitals, suggesting that they should not operate independently when it comes to bed availability.
The chairman also revealed that part of the GHS2.9 billion approved for the Ghana Medical Trust Fund will be allocated to upgrading regional hospitals. This initiative aims to alleviate pressure on referral centers and facilitate the training of more specialists. He highlighted the lack of essential equipment like MRI and CT scan machines in many regional hospitals, which hampers their ability to manage critical cases.
Dr Nawaane assured that Parliament will rigorously oversee the allocation and use of these funds. He insists that improving infrastructure, training specialists, and enhancing oversight are crucial steps toward resolving the 'no bed syndrome' and preventing further tragedies for families.