The Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) in Kumasi has indefinitely suspended all surgical procedures due to a critical water shortage that has disrupted operations for over a week.
In a memo dated March 25, 2025, the Komfo Anokye Doctors Association (KADA) announced the suspension, citing patient safety and hygiene concerns. The water shortage, which began last week, has severely impacted the hospital’s ability to maintain sanitary conditions essential for healthcare delivery.
“This memo is to formally inform management of the decision taken by the Orthopaedic and Emergency Directorate to temporarily halt the admission of new patients until the availability of water is restored,” the statement read.
Patient Safety at Risk
The shortage has severely hampered essential services, including surgical procedures, which rely heavily on adequate water supply to maintain hygiene and prevent infections.
“Water is a critical resource for maintaining hygiene, conducting surgical procedures, and ensuring patient care and safety. The current shortage has reached a critical point, compromising both patient safety and healthcare delivery,” the memo emphasized.
Dr. Michael Leat, Chairman of KADA, expressed regret over the situation but stressed that the decision was unavoidable.
“We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and kindly request management’s urgent intervention to address the water crisis. The directorates will continue to manage existing patients to the best of our ability while prioritizing safety and hygiene,” he stated.
Calls for Urgent Intervention
The association has urged management to explore alternative water sources to alleviate the crisis and ensure uninterrupted healthcare delivery.
Meanwhile, KATH management confirmed that the Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) has not yet restored normal supply. According to the hospital’s Public Relations Directorate, the facility is relying on inadequate alternative sources, including water supplied by the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA), and other emergency measures.
“We are currently relying on alternative sources, which have proven inadequate due to the huge volumes of water required for our operations daily,” the management stated.
Efforts to restore water supply are ongoing, with KATH remaining in constant communication with the regional office of GWCL to expedite repairs.
Community and Government Support Needed
The suspension of surgeries at one of Ghana’s leading healthcare facilities highlights the dire consequences of infrastructure challenges on healthcare delivery. Stakeholders are calling for swift action to resolve the water crisis and prevent further disruptions to critical services.
The situation underscores the need for sustainable water supply systems for essential institutions like KATH, as delays not only disrupt operations but also risk lives.
Story by: Mercy Addai Turkson #ahotoronline.com
