Ambulance Service fires back at ‘poorly trained’ EMT claim

The Ghana National Ambulance Service (GNAS) has rejected suggestions that its Emergency Medical Technicians are poorly trained, warning that the claim could erode public trust in emergency healthcare.

In a press release sighted by GhanaWeb and issued on Friday, May 22, 2026, the Service responded to comments made by Professor Agyeman-Badu Akosa, Chairman of the Health Minister’s committee probing the death of Charles Amissah.

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Speaking on Channel One TV’s Point of View on May 20, Professor Akosa allegedly described EMTs within the National Ambulance Service as “poorly trained,” remarks that have since sparked debate over the readiness of Ghana’s emergency responders.

“The comment regarding the training of EMTs is sweeping, unfortunate, and capable of undermining public trust and confidence in a critical public health institution,” the Service stated.

Management insisted EMTs across the country undergo rigorous theoretical and practical training delivered by doctors, emergency physicians, paramedics, and nurse specialists. All personnel, it said, are certified to practise within their approved scope and are continually assessed to meet operational standards.

The Service noted it has spent over two decades providing pre-hospital emergency care, responding to thousands of medical emergencies, road accidents, disasters, and inter-facility transfers. It argued that the suggestion of poor training undermines responders who work under difficult, high-pressure conditions to save lives.

While rejecting the claim, the Service said it welcomes the investigative committee’s work and efforts to strengthen emergency healthcare delivery. It disclosed that it is reviewing and expanding its curriculum for both Basic and Advanced EMT programmes to modernise training and improve service delivery nationwide.

Plans are also underway to upgrade certificate-based EMT training into diploma and degree-awarding programmes to align with international best practices. The Service added that it remains committed to continuous professional development through regular refresher courses and capacity-building for EMTs.

“The Service assures the general public of its unwavering commitment to providing timely, professional, and quality pre-hospital emergency care services to the people of Ghana,” the statement added.

Read the official statement below:

NAD/AM

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