The Ministry of Health has released the findings of an independent investigation into the death of a 29-year-old male patient at the Tamale Teaching Hospital (TTH) on April 13, 2025. The patient, identified as Bavug Salim was transferred from One Heart Hospital in Tamale to the emergency department at TTH in critical condition, where his health rapidly deteriorated, leading to his death on the same day.
The circumstances surrounding his death sparked widespread public concern and serious allegations of medical negligence. In response, Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh appointed a three-member committee to assess the clinical, operational, and systemic factors that may have contributed to the patient’s death.
The committee, chaired by lawyer Khalid Abdul Rauf also included Dr. Takyi Duayeden, Deputy Director of Clinical Care at the Ghana Health Service, with Vida Domekaar Mwireh, Deputy Chief Administrative Manager of the Ghana Health Service Northern Region, serving as secretary.
Over two months, from May to June,according to the Minister, the committee held 12 sittings, meeting with the deceased’s family, friends, and hospital staff from the emergency department, ICU, and other relevant units. The committee also reviewed the hospital’s standard operating procedures.
”We came out with our findings and in addition to the findings, we also came out with far-reaching recommendations that we think if these recommendations are actually implemented, it would not only go a long way to help improve the image of the hospital but also overall efficiency,” said Akandoh during the press briefing. “The Tamale Teaching Hospital serves not only the Northern Region but all other neighboring regions.”
Upon receiving the report, Mintah Akandoh thanked the committee for their work and pledged the ministry’s commitment to swift action. “We will take our time to study the report, and whatever recommendations it contains, we will make sure they are implemented,” he stated. “The ultimate aim is to improve healthcare delivery services in the country.”
Details of the 39-page investigative report remain undisclosed as the Minister has yet to reveal its contents.
Story By: Eugenia Ewoenam Osei
