Introduction
Having worked in Ghana's healthcare system for several years, one observation continues to stand out: many patients and their relatives present themselves at health facilities as passive objects to be worked on rather than active participants in their own care.
The moment some people enter a hospital, they mentally and emotionally disconnect from the treatment process. They often surrender all decision-making to healthcare providers and hesitate to express concerns, ask questions, or share opinions—even when they suspect something may be wrong.
This attitude can be compared to a car owner who takes a faulty vehicle to a mechanic. After discussing the repairs, the owner leaves while the mechanic works on the car. Unfortunately, healthcare does not work that way. The human body cannot be separated from its owner. While the body is being treated, the patient remains physically, emotionally, and psychologically involved in the process.
For this reason, patients and their families should never see themselves as mere objects receiving treatment. They are important members of the healthcare team.
The Dangers of the "Patient-as-Object" Mentality
Illness affects more than the body. It often impacts a person's emotional, psychological, social, and even financial well-being.
When patients and relatives become passive observers during treatment, healthcare providers may miss valuable information that could improve care and recovery. Patients who are encouraged to speak openly are more likely to share fears, symptoms, concerns, and experiences that can influence treatment decisions.
Effective healthcare requires collaboration, not silence.
Increased Risk of Medical Errors
Another major danger of this detached attitude is the increased risk of medical errors.
No healthcare provider is perfect. Doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and other professionals can occasionally make mistakes despite their training and experience. When patients and relatives feel intimidated or afraid to speak up, opportunities to prevent such mistakes may be lost.
Imagine a patient who knows that they usually receive 10mg of a particular medication. One day, a healthcare provider arrives with 50mg of the same medicine. The patient notices the difference but remains silent because they assume the professional must be correct.
If the dosage is indeed incorrect, the consequences could be serious.
Patients and relatives should feel empowered to ask questions such as:
- Is this the medication I normally take?
- Why has the dosage changed?
- What is this medicine for?
- What side effects should I expect?
These are not acts of disrespect. They are essential components of safe healthcare delivery.
Patient Rights Must Be Protected
In many Ghanaian health facilities, patients often feel they are receiving a favour rather than exercising a right.
This perception sometimes creates an unhealthy relationship between healthcare providers and clients. While most healthcare workers are committed to providing quality care, some patients develop excessive fear of questioning authority, while some staff may unintentionally project a sense of superiority.
Healthcare should be a partnership built on mutual respect.
Patients have the right to:
- Receive information about their condition.
- Participate in decisions concerning their treatment.
- Ask questions without fear.
- Seek clarification when they do not understand.
- Be treated with dignity and respect.
Greater awareness of these rights can help improve healthcare outcomes across Ghana.
Why Some People Delay Seeking Medical Care
The strained relationship that sometimes exists between healthcare providers and the public also contributes to delayed healthcare seeking.
Many people postpone visiting health facilities because they fear being shouted at, ignored, embarrassed, or treated unfairly. As a result, conditions that could have been treated early often progress into serious complications.
Improving communication and trust between healthcare providers and patients is therefore not just a customer service issue—it is a public health necessity.
A Shared Responsibility
The problem is not caused by one group alone.
Healthcare providers must create an environment where patients feel comfortable asking questions and expressing concerns. At the same time, patients and relatives must understand that they have a responsibility to actively participate in their own care.
Quality healthcare is most effective when both parties work together toward a common goal: better health outcomes.
As discussed extensively in my book, Bernajis Health and Social Diary, strengthening this partnership is one of the most important steps toward improving healthcare delivery in Ghana.
Conclusion
You are not a car that can be dropped off for repairs while the owner goes home.
When you become ill, remain actively involved in your treatment process. Ask questions, seek clarification, report concerns, and communicate openly with your healthcare providers.
Your voice matters.
Active patient participation not only improves safety but can also contribute to faster recovery, better treatment outcomes, and a more responsive healthcare system for everyone.
The writer is Bernard Agbonoshie; a state registered nurse, author and a public speaker.
