Surgical operations at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) in Kumasi have been suspended due to a severe water shortage that has persisted for over a week. Doctors at the facility say the situation has made surgical procedures unsafe, forcing them to take drastic action to protect patient safety. On March 25, the Komfo Anokye Doctors Association issued a formal memo to hospital management, instructing the suspension of all surgeries until water supply is restored.
The memo emphasized the critical role of water in maintaining hygiene, supporting surgical procedures, and ensuring proper patient care. It also stated that the Orthopaedic and Emergency Directorate would temporarily stop admitting new patients until the crisis is resolved. Despite efforts to manage the situation, the water shortage has reached a crisis point, significantly affecting the hospital’s ability to provide quality healthcare.
Dr. Michael Leat, Chairman of the Association, assured that doctors would continue to care for existing patients while apologizing for the inconvenience caused by the suspension. He urged hospital management to explore alternative water sources and provide regular updates on efforts to resolve the issue.
