The Ghana Medical Association (GMA) has raised grave concerns over rising issues of alcoholism, other drug abuse and cases of sexual misconduct among some of its members.
Addressing the GMA’s annual general meeting, Dr. Serebour indicated that the association is facing series of lawsuits regarding allegations of medical and professional negligence, emphasizing the urgency for action to address the problem.
Dr. Frank Serebour noted that such unprofessional behaviour from doctors relating to alcoholism and other substance abuse put care of patients in jeopardy as the affected members continue their routine work in the various health facilities.
“We have some health personnel involved in alcoholism and drug abuse, which impacts their quality of life,” he bemoaned.
The GMA president also cited reported cases of severe sexual harassment by health workers of which many are still under review by the Medical and Dental Council.
According Dr. Serebour the rising lawsuits against the medical profession is an indication of poor services by members in the country. He was with the view health workers involved in negligence and other malpractices go scot-free without consequences simply because victims choose to blame witches and wizards instead of taking on the system.
“In some cases, we are left off the hook simply because the victims of our unprofessionalism choose to blame the witches and wizards instead of taking on the system.” He stated.
The GMA president also chided members for other unprofessional attitudes such as chronic lateness, absenteeism, and insufficient work hours.
"Is there an overwhelming focus on greed and selfishness? Some workers arrive at 9:00 a.m. and leave by noon, expecting to be paid for a full day," he retorted.
