Unjust Practices in Healthcare: The unfortunate reality of toilet fees in Ghana’s national hospitals

In the heart of Ghana’s healthcare system, where compassion and care should take precedence, a troubling practice has emerged, tarnishing the reputation of institutions meant to serve the public.

Reports have surfaced regarding the extortionate demand for toilet usage fees at some national hospitals, including Ga North Municipal Hospital, Ofankor Accra. This practice raises serious ethical concerns and highlights the need for immediate intervention.

A Shocking Discovery

During a recent visit to Ga North Municipal Hospital, I was confronted with an appalling situation: patients, already burdened with the cost of medical care, are required to pay fees to use the hospital's washroom facilities.

Even patients who have been asked by the medical doctor to do urine tests have to pay before given access to the facility to do so. These washrooms are an integral part of the hospital infrastructure, intended to provide comfort and dignity for patients and visitors.

Instead, they have become yet another avenue for financial exploitation. The sadden part was that pregnant women who are identified with regular passing of urine are made to pay for every session of urine they pass at the facility throughout the number of hours they spend at the facility.

It was an eyesore during their ANC sessions for pregnant women. It was shocking to see tables mounted for collection this toilet levy. On that same day as my visit to Ga North Municipal Hospital, I was asked by the doctor to go to the pharmacy for the medicine she had prescribed for me. Shockingly, a fair lady at the pharmacy gave me wrong medicine. How I got to know.

Fortunately for me the doctor had told me to collect two sets of medicine, and she gave me one set. So, when I probe, she checked again and realized she had given me someone’s medication.

For many patients, especially those who are financially disadvantaged, such fees can be an additional and unnecessary burden. Imagine a sick patient or a worried relative, already overwhelmed by health concerns, being forced to part with their hard-earned money just to access a basic facility. It is both unjust and inhumane. Many patients also die as a result of some these negligence of our health care providers in these facilities.

Ethical Implications

Hospitals are sanctuaries of healing, where the well-being of patients is paramount. Charging fees for basic amenities like toilets contradicts the fundamental principles of healthcare. These facilities are not luxuries; they are necessities, especially in a medical environment where hygiene is crucial.

Moreover, such practices erode public trust in the healthcare system. Patients may begin to question the motives of hospital management and staff, suspecting profit-driven motives in an institution that should prioritize health and compassion.

Accountability and Action Needed

The Ministry of Health and relevant authorities must address this issue urgently. Hospitals, particularly public ones, are funded through taxpayers’ money. It is unacceptable for these institutions to impose additional charges on the very citizens who fund their operations.

Here are some recommendations to rectify the situation:

1. Immediate Investigation: Authorities should conduct a thorough investigation into the practice of charging toilet fees at Ga North Municipal Hospital, Ofankor Accra and other national hospitals, which has become a practice.

2. Policy Implementation: Clear policies should be established to ensure that access to basic facilities like toilets is free of charge in all public hospitals.

3. Accountability Measures: Hospital management must be held accountable for any unauthorized fees. Transparency in financial practices is essential.

4. Public Awareness: Patients and visitors should be educated about their rights regarding access to hospital facilities. Hotline numbers can be established for reporting unethical practices.

A Call for Compassion

Healthcare is a fundamental human right, and access to clean, functional washrooms in hospitals is a basic component of this right. It is disheartening that such an issue even needs to be addressed in today’s Ghana. Nevertheless, it is crucial to shine a light on these injustices and advocate for change.

To the leadership of Ga North Municipal Hospital, Ofankor Accra and other affected institutions, I urge you to prioritize the welfare of your patients. To the Ministry of Health, I appeal for swift and decisive action. And to the citizens of Ghana, let us hold our institutions accountable and demand the respect and care we deserve.

The health of a nation is its wealth. Let us ensure that every patient in Ghana receives the dignity and compassion they are entitled to, free from exploitation.