GRNMA STRIKE: HEALTH CRISIS DEEPENS AS PARLIAMENT INTERVENES AMID PUBLIC OUTCRY

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12 June 2025

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GRNMA STRIKE: HEALTH CRISIS DEEPENS AS PARLIAMENT INTERVENES AMID PUBLIC OUTCRY

Calls for urgent resolution mount as critical health services collapse across Ghana.

The nationwide strike by the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) has entered a critical phase, drawing sharp concerns from civil society and prompting parliamentary action. As the industrial action stretches into its second week, thousands of patients across the country are being denied vital health services, with no resolution yet in sight.

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A coalition of civil society organizations (CSOs), including the Ghana NCD Alliance, VAST-Ghana, and the Stroke Association Support Network, has warned of a looming public health disaster.

In a joint statement, the CSOs revealed that services such as dialysis, cancer care, mental health, stroke rehabilitation, hypertension and diabetes management, epilepsy, and asthma treatment have been severely disrupted due to the absence of nurses and midwives at public facilities.

“We are seeing patients being turned away from hospitals, particularly those with non-communicable diseases. The cost of private care is unaffordable for many, and this is rapidly worsening health inequities,” the statement emphasized.

In response to mounting pressure, Parliament’s Health Committee has scheduled an emergency meeting with GRNMA leadership today. The aim is to explore a possible roadmap to end the strike, which was triggered after government proposals to defer the implementation of the nurses’ new Conditions of Service from 2024 to 2026.

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The GRNMA has remained resolute in its demand for immediate and full implementation, insisting that the delay violates their earlier agreement and undermines trust.

The government’s attempt to fill the gap by recruiting retired nurses and midwives has been met with strong opposition from GRNMA. In a statement issued today, the Association described the move as “superficial” and incapable of addressing the systemic issues at hand.

“Calling on retirees is not a sustainable or ethical solution. What we demand is respect for the signed Collective Agreement,” the Association asserted.

Key Issues

Area	Update
Patient Impact	Thousands of Ghanaians—especially those with chronic conditions—are without access to essential care.
Government Response	Emergency measures announced, including publishing a list of 359 alternative health facilities.
GRNMA Position	No compromise unless the 2024 Conditions of Service are fully implemented.
Parliamentary Action	Health Committee scheduled to meet with GRNMA on June 12 to find a resolution.
Civil Society Alarm	CSOs say the situation is escalating into a humanitarian crisis.
Retired Staff Substitution	Proposal rejected outright by GRNMA.

While the Ministry of Health has directed the public to alternative health facilities, the capacity of these centres remains limited. Stakeholders continue to urge both parties to prioritize public health and reach an agreement.

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Today’s scheduled meeting between Parliament’s Health Committee and GRNMA may prove pivotal. If no agreement is reached, the impact on Ghana’s healthcare system could worsen dramatically, risking lives and further undermining public confidence.

The public is encouraged to stay informed through official channels and seek care only at designated, operational facilities listed by the Ministry of Health.

Compiled by: patientlifematters.com

NATIONWIDE DISRUPTION DEEPENS AS GRNMA REJECTS GOVERNMENT’S PROPOSALS AND TEMPORARY MEASURES

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11 June 2025

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NATIONWIDE DISRUPTION DEEPENS AS GRNMA REJECTS GOVERNMENT’S PROPOSALS AND TEMPORARY MEASURES

The Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) has intensified its nationwide strike, plunging healthcare delivery into a state of emergency and drawing growing concern from the public and policymakers alike. The strike, which began in early June 2025, has been triggered by government delays in implementing revised conditions of service negotiated and agreed upon in 2024.

Hospitals and clinics across the country—both public and some private—have reported long queues, overwhelmed emergency departments, and severe staff shortages. Thousands of patients remain stranded, especially in rural and regional health facilities.

In response, the Ministry of Health has released a list of alternative health facilities that remain functional, urging the public to seek care in these designated centers. The government emphasized its commitment to minimizing the strike’s impact while efforts to resolve the impasse continue.

On June 9, the Ashanti regional branch of GRNMA withdrew all services on—outpatient, inpatient, emergency, and antenatal—despite a court injunction. The Association stated it had not been formally served with the injunction and viewed the strike as lawful.

In the Greater Accra Region, GRNMA’s regional chairman, Jefferson Asare, said the Association remained open to dialogue but would not renegotiate already agreed terms from the 2024 Collective Agreement.

On June 10,Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh held a press briefing urging retired nurses and midwives to temporarily return to service. He cited the “urgency of the situation and the suffering of patients” as justification for the call.

The Ministry announced that the Ministry of Finance and the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission had been directed to urgently create a roadmap for implementing the new service conditions.

GRNMA, however, firmly rejected the idea of retirees substituting active members, stating it undermined the real issues and failed to provide a sustainable solution.

Wednesday, June 11,GRNMA President Perpetual Ofori-Ampofo publicly declared that the Association had “run out of patience.” She criticized government delays and expressed frustration over the lack of action since the new administration assumed office in January.

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The Association also dismissed the government’s claim—made by Deputy Finance Minister—that implementing the new agreement would cost an additional GH¢2 billion. GRNMA leaders described the figure as exaggerated and indicative of poor prioritization.

Health Minister Akandoh reiterated that the government values the work of nurses and remains open to meaningful dialogue. He added that his office is “working around the clock” to bring about a peaceful resolution.

Member of Parliament Felix Kwakye Ofosu confirmed that efforts were being made “quietly behind the scenes” to address the crisis without worsening the situation.

Core Issues at Stake

Delayed Implementation: The primary trigger of the strike was the government’s proposal to postpone the implementation of the 2024 Collective Agreement to 2026, which GRNMA has outrightly rejected.

Budget Concerns: Government officials claim the full implementation would strain the national budget. GRNMA argues this is an excuse, not a justification.

Emergency Measures: The call for retired nurses to step in has been roundly dismissed by the Association.

Public Health Impact: Essential health services—especially in maternity, emergency care, and chronic disease management—are being severely affected.

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What the Public Should Know

Seek Alternative Facilities: The Ministry of Health has published a list of available facilities where patients can still receive nursing services. Sch as; Korle‑Bu Teaching Hospital, Accra

37 Military Hospital, Accra

Tamale Teaching Hospital, Tamale

St. Dominic Catholic Hospital, Akwatia (Eastern Region

Faith‑Based & CHAG Facilities

Across all 16 regions, (CHAG) hospitals and clinics remain operational etc

Dialogue is Ongoing: While tensions remain high, both parties have expressed a willingness to continue discussions.

No End in Sight (Yet): Despite emergency meetings and public appeals, a definitive resolution has not been reached, and the strike continues unabated.

MOH ACTIVATES EMERGENCY MEASURES AHEAD OF NATIONWIDE HEALTH STRIKE – GHANA

Patientlifematters.com: As the strike by Ghana’s nurses and midwives enters its most critical phase, the nation watches closely. With lives at stake and healthcare systems overwhelmed, the need for decisive, fair, and urgent action has never been more pressing. The government and GRNMA must find common ground—not only to end the strike but to rebuild trust in Ghana’s healthcare system.

GOVERNMENT ORDERED RETIRED NURSES AND MIDWIVES IN GHANA TO RETURN TO WORK – GRNMA STRIKE ACTION

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10 June 2025

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GOVERNMENT ORDERED RETIRED NURSES AND MIDWIVES IN GHANA TO RETURN TO WORK – GRNMA STRIKE ACTION

The ongoing strike by members of the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) is significantly disrupting healthcare services across the country. Reports indicate that both public and some private health facilities have been affected, with long queues, limited access to basic care, and thousands of patients stranded.

This disruption follows the failure of a high-level emergency meeting held on Monday, June 9, between the Ministry of Health, GRNMA leadership, and other stakeholders. Despite efforts to reach a resolution, the discussions reportedly ended without agreement.

In response to the worsening situation, the government has pledged to continue dialogue with the nurses to achieve a mutually acceptable outcome that protects public health. The Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has assured that the government remains committed to this goal.

To manage the crisis in the interim, the Minister disclosed that the Ministry of Finance and the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission have been directed to urgently develop a roadmap for the implementation of revised conditions of service for nurses and midwives. Simultaneously, the Ministry of Health is preparing to publish a list of alternative healthcare facilities where patients can access services during the strike.

The Health Minister has also reportedly called on retired nurses and midwives to return to service temporarily. He explained that this appeal was made to alleviate the burden on the health system and assist patients affected by the ongoing industrial action. He noted that the government was appealing to public-spirited retirees to volunteer their expertise until the dispute is resolved.

The call for retirees to step in comes as the nationwide strike intensifies, following the GRNMA’s outright rejection of the government’s proposal to delay the implementation of newly agreed conditions of service until 2026. It is this proposed deferment that triggered the current strike, which has now entered a critical phase without a clear resolution in sight.

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CRITICAL UPDATE ON THE NATIONWIDE HEALTH STRIKE – GHANA

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10 June 2025

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CRITICAL UPDATE ON THE NATIONWIDE HEALTH STRIKE – GHANA

The Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) has intensified its nationwide industrial action, maintaining a firm stance for full implementation of the 2024 Collective Agreement.

On Monday, June 9, 2025, GRNMA’s Ashanti branch withdrew all services from public hospitals, including inpatient and antenatal care, despite a court injunction ordering a halt. Association leaders assert that without formal service of the injunction, their action remains lawful, and they will not return to work until government fulfils its commitments

In Accra, GRNMA’s regional chairman, Jefferson Asare, emphasized that while the Association is still open to dialogue, it will not renegotiate terms already agreed upon: “We are ready to meet—but not to reopen what has been settled”

Today, GRNMA Vice President Samuel A. Akologo made a powerful appeal to the public: any patient deaths resulting from the strike must be attributed to the government’s failure to implement agreed conditions. He firmly rejected a proposal to postpone the implementation until 2026, labelling it unacceptable

Responding to the strike, Labour Minister Dr. Rashid Pelpuo expressed his surprise that his office had not been consulted before the action began. While expressing concern, he also invited GRNMA for talks, maintaining “my doors remain open”

The Association has made its position clear: they are ready and willing to talk but will not compromise on the terms negotiated in the 2024 Agreement.

Patientlifematters.com analysis to the public

What’s Happening?

Tuesday, June 10: GRNMA’s Vice President has challenged the government: failure to implement the 2024 Collective Agreement is placing lives at risk.
Monday, June 9: The Ashanti Region escalated the strike by halting medical services in public hospitals, even after a court injunction.
Regional leadership clarified they are open to talks, not negotiation, affirming terms already agreed upon.

What’s at Stake?

Health services—inpatient, outpatient, emergency, antenatal—are currently disrupted.
GRNMA is insisting on immediate implementation of critical allowances and service improvements, as agreed in 2024.
The government has proposed delaying these measures to 2026, which the Association firmly rejects.

What Are the Next Steps?

The Labour Minister has extended an offer to meet with GRNMA leadership to resolve the impasse.
GRNMA remains open to dialogue but will not reopen agreed terms.
Public and professional attention is turning to whether the government will honour the Collective Agreement or risk further disruption.

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GRNMA Says No Official Injunction Received—Strike Continues

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7 June 2025

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GRNMA Says No Official Injunction Received—Strike Continues

In a firm response to reports of a court injunction, the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) has declared that it is yet to receive any official notice from either the courts or the National Labour Commission (NLC) regarding an order to halt its nationwide strike.

According to GRNMA’s Public Relations Officer, Joseph Krampah, the association has not been formally served with any legal documentation to cease the industrial action, despite reports that the NLC had secured an interlocutory injunction from the Industrial and Labour Division of the High Court in Accra on Wednesday, June 5, 2025.

Krampah, speaking to Citi News on Friday, June 6, emphasized that the GRNMA remains committed to the rule of law but cannot comply with an order it has not officially received. He questioned the basis for declaring the strike illegal, asserting that the association had duly notified the employer prior to commencing the action.

“They [NLC] think they should serve us a letter—we cannot stop them. But what constitutes an illegal strike? When has the Labour Commission ever declared a strike legal? It is only considered illegal when an employer is not notified, and we did inform them,” he clarified.

Reaffirming the association’s stance, he added, “If you’re declaring the strike illegal and you’re bringing an injunction, that is your job. We respect the court and the NLC very much. But for things we haven’t seen, we cannot act on them. None of our executives have been served any such letter. So, until we officially receive it, aluta continua.”

The ongoing strike, which began earlier this week, is in protest of delays in implementing the 2024 Collective Agreement. Nurses and midwives are demanding the payment of outstanding allowances and immediate resolution of delayed postings.

Healthcare services across the country have been significantly disrupted, as the strike continues to take its toll nationwide.

NURSES AND MIDWIVES STRIKE DECLARED ILLEGAL AS TENSIONS ESCALATE OVER DELAYED AGREEMENT

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5 June 2025

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NURSES AND MIDWIVES STRIKE DECLARED ILLEGAL AS TENSIONS ESCALATE OVER DELAYED AGREEMENT

Sources have reported that the nationwide strike initiated by nurses and midwives stemmed from what the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) described as long-standing delays in implementing their 2024 Collective Agreement—an agreement said to contain critical provisions for improved working conditions and remuneration.

Despite prior warnings, the National Labour Commission (NLC), exercising its mandate under the Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651), is said to have instructed the GRNMA to halt all intended protest actions, including symbolic demonstrations and a full withdrawal of services, while mediation efforts were underway.

Reports confirm that this directive followed a formal strike notice submitted to the NLC by the GRNMA on May 29, 2025. However, controversy erupted when GRNMA leadership failed to appear at a high-level meeting convened by the NLC on Wednesday, June 4. In contrast, stakeholders such as the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission, the Ministry of Health, and the Ministry of Finance were present and ready to negotiate.

This absence, sources say, led the NLC to label the industrial action as unlawful under Section 159 of the Labour Act. In an official statement released on June 4, the Commission reportedly declared, “The industrial action by the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association is illegal and must be called off immediately.”

Matters escalated further as the High Court reportedly issued an injunction to legally enforce the NLC’s directive—compelling more than 128,000 GRNMA members to return to their posts at health facilities without delay.

The NLC has also directed GRNMA leaders to resume negotiations with the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission and submit a progress report by June 25, 2025.

Meanwhile, Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh is said to have made an emotional appeal to the striking healthcare professionals, urging them to prioritise the well-being of patients and rejoin the negotiation table in the spirit of resolution and compassion.

The ongoing strike has reportedly caused major disruptions, particularly in outpatient and emergency services across public hospitals nationwide—raising alarm about the immediate impact on healthcare delivery.

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MOH ACTIVATES EMERGENCY MEASURES AHEAD OF NATIONWIDE HEALTH STRIKE – GHANA

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5 June 2025

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MOH ACTIVATES EMERGENCY MEASURES AHEAD OF NATIONWIDE HEALTH STRIKE – GHANA

In response to the looming strike, the Ministry of Health has reportedly directed all public health facilities in Ghana to activate their contingency plans without delay. Sources reveal that hospital managers—particularly Directors of Nursing Services and their Deputies—have been instructed to remain on duty throughout the strike duration.

It was also disclosed that unit heads must ensure maternity and emergency services continue uninterrupted in all hospitals, while the Ambulance Service has been placed on high alert across all districts to respond swiftly to emergencies.

Reports further indicate that emergency coordinating structures are to be established to maintain a constant link with ambulance services, and that the Director-General of the Ghana Health Service, alongside CEOs and Medical Directors of Teaching Hospitals, will be submitting daily updates on service delivery to the Acting Chief Director of the Ministry.

In a bid to cope with the expected patient surge, the Ministry is said to be engaging quasi-government health facilities for support. Additionally, rotational nurses and those undergoing mandatory clinicals have reportedly been advised to abstain from joining the industrial action.

According to the Ministry, every effort is being made to ensure that logistics and support systems are in place to cushion the health sector against the strike’s disruption. While commending nurses and midwives who have chosen not to participate, the Ministry has once again appealed to the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) to reconsider its stance, assuring that dialogue remains ongoing to resolve all outstanding issues.

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NEPHROSTOMY: OVERVIEW AND COMPREHENSIVE CARE GUIDE

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2 June 2025

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NEPHROSTOMY: OVERVIEW AND COMPREHENSIVE CARE GUIDE

What is a Nephrostomy?

A nephrostomy is a procedure where a catheter (tube) is inserted through the skin into the kidney to drain urine directly from the renal pelvis. It bypasses the ureter, which may be blocked due to:

Kidney stones

Tumours

Infections

Trauma

Congenital abnormalities

The tube exits through the back and connects to an external drainage bag.

2. Comprehensive Nursing Care in the Ward

Initial Post-Procedure Care

Monitor vital signs: Especially in the first 24 hours for signs of bleeding or infection.

Observe the nephrostomy site:

Check for redness, swelling, discharge, or leakage.

Ensure dressing is clean and secure.

Urine output:

Measure and record output hourly initially, then per shift.

Monitor for changes in colour, clarity, or presence of clots.

Ongoing Nursing Care

Site care:

Clean the insertion site daily or as per hospital protocol using aseptic technique.

Change dressing if wet, soiled, or loose.

Drainage bag management:

Keep below the level of the kidney to prevent backflow.

Empty when 2/3 full, using clean technique.

Maintain accurate intake/output charting.

Prevent dislodgment:

Secure the tube with tape or fixation device.

Educate the patient to avoid pulling or tugging.

Infection control:

Watch for fever, chills, increased WBCs.

Report cloudy or foul-smelling urine.

Pain management:

Administer analgesics as prescribed.

Monitor for signs of discomfort, especially during movement or dressing changes.

Patient education:

Explain the purpose and care of the nephrostomy.

Involve them in simple care if appropriate (e.g., emptying the bag).

3. Dietary Management

Hydration: Encourage fluid intake (unless contraindicated) to flush the kidneys.

Low-sodium diet: Reduces kidney strain and manages blood pressure.

Protein moderation (especially in renal impairment): Prevents further kidney burden.

Avoid oxalate-rich foods (if stones are a cause): Spinach, nuts, chocolate.

Monitor electrolytes:

Adjust diet based on lab results (e.g., potassium or phosphate levels).

Consult a renal dietitian for individualized dietary planning.

4. Physiotherapy Management

Mobilization:

Early ambulation if stable to prevent complications like DVT or pneumonia.

Encourage movement while securing nephrostomy tubing to prevent dislodgement.

Breathing exercises:

Especially post-op or if patient is bedridden.

Postural care:

Ensure the patient maintains good posture during bed rest to avoid pressure ulcers.

Pelvic floor or core strengthening (if appropriate):

Improves overall abdominal and back support for long-term nephrostomy patients.

Conclusion

Managing a patient with a nephrostomy requires a holistic, multidisciplinary approach. Nurses play a key role in monitoring, maintaining site hygiene, educating patients, and coordinating care. With support from dietitians and physiotherapists, patients can maintain quality of life and reduce the risk of complications.

PALLIATIVE AND EOL CARE – mouth care

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2 June 2025

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mouth care

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THE DEVASTATING IMPACT OF SUBSTANCE ABUSE

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13 March 2025

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THE DEVASTATING IMPACT OF SUBSTANCE ABUSE

Substance abuse is a growing concern in our world today, affecting individuals, families, and entire communities. Whether it’s alcohol, tobacco, or illegal drugs, substance abuse damages lives in ways that many fail to realize until it’s too late. It is crucial to understand the causes, recognize the effects, and find ways to prevent or overcome addiction.

What Causes Substance Abuse?

Many factors contribute to substance abuse. Some of the most common include:

Peer Pressure – Young people often start using drugs or alcohol due to influence from friends or social groups.
Curiosity and Experimentation – Some individuals, especially teenagers, want to experience what it feels like.
Stress and Mental Health Issues – Anxiety, depression, and other mental health struggles can lead people to use substances as a way to escape reality.
Family Influence – Growing up in a household where drug or alcohol use is common increases the likelihood of substance abuse.
Availability of Drugs and Alcohol – Easy access to substances makes it easier for people to fall into addiction.
Trauma and Abuse – Past traumatic experiences, such as physical or emotional abuse, often lead individuals to seek relief through drugs or alcohol.

Effects of Substance Abuse on Health and Society

Substance abuse does not only affect the person using drugs or alcohol—it impacts society as a whole.

Health Effects

Brain Damage – Prolonged drug use alters brain function, affecting memory, judgment, and emotions.
Heart and Liver Problems – Alcohol and drugs can cause severe damage to the heart, liver, and other organs.
Mental Disorders – Substance abuse can trigger depression, anxiety, and even psychosis.
Weakened Immune System – Drug use lowers immunity, making the body more prone to infections and diseases.
Risk of Overdose and Death – Many people underestimate the power of drugs, leading to overdose and even fatalities.

Effects on Society

Crime Increase – Many criminal activities, including theft and violence, are linked to drug abuse.
Broken Families – Addiction destroys relationships, leading to divorce, child neglect, and domestic violence.
Unemployment and Poverty – Many drug users lose jobs due to poor performance or criminal activities.
Health System Burden – Hospitals and rehabilitation centres are overwhelmed by cases of drug-related health issues.

How to Prevent Substance Abuse

The best way to fight substance abuse is by stopping it before it starts. Here are some effective prevention methods:

Education and Awareness – Schools, communities, and families should educate people on the dangers of substance abuse.
Strong Family Support – Parents should communicate openly with their children, guide them, and provide a safe environment.
Healthy Friendships – Choosing the right friends can help avoid peer pressure and bad influences.
Engagement in Positive Activities – Sports, music, and hobbies can keep young people busy and away from drugs.
Strict Laws and Policies – Governments should enforce laws that regulate drug use and sales.

How to Stop Substance Abuse if You Are Already Addicted

If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, there is hope. Here’s how to overcome substance abuse:

Admit the Problem – The first step to recovery is acknowledging that you need help.
Seek Professional Help – Doctors, counsellors, and rehabilitation centres can provide the necessary treatment and support.
Surround Yourself with Supportive People – Being around loved ones who encourage sobriety is crucial.
Develop Healthy Habits – Exercise, good nutrition, and positive activities can help replace bad habits.
Avoid Triggers – Stay away from people and places that encourage substance use.
Stay Committed – Recovery is a journey. Stay strong, be patient, and never give up.

A Warning to Children and Youth

Dear young ones, your future is bright, and you have so much to achieve. Do not let drugs or alcohol ruin your dreams. Substance abuse is a trap that many fall into, but you have the power to say NO. Surround yourself with positive influences, focus on your education, and seek help when you face difficulties. Your life is too precious to waste on drugs.

Conclusion

Substance abuse is a serious issue, but with education, awareness, and strong community support, we can fight against it. Whether you are trying to prevent it, help someone struggling, or recover from addiction, remember—there is always hope, and change is possible. Say YES to life and NO to drugs!