Parliamentary Health Committee member pushes digital fix for hospital delays

The death of 29-year-old Charles Amissah has reignited debate over emergency healthcare delivery in Ghana, with Abuakwa South MP, Kingsley Agyemang, calling for urgent systemic reforms to prevent similar incidents.

In a media interview the Member of Parliament and Parliamentary Health Committee member stressed that Ghana’s healthcare challenges go beyond infrastructure deficits and require innovative, technology-driven solutions.

His comments follow reports that Mr. Amissah allegedly died after being denied emergency treatment due to a lack of beds at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, Greater Accra Regional Hospital, and the Police Hospital.

Although emergency medical technicians from the National Ambulance Service managed to stabilise him, he reportedly spent nearly three hours being transported between facilities before his condition worsened and he passed away.

Dr. Agyemang described the recurring “no-bed syndrome” as not merely a matter of space constraints, but also one of responsiveness and professional responsibility.

“When it comes to emergencies, health workers are supposed to find any means possible to stabilise a victim. To deny healthcare is a matter of conscience,” he stated.

As part of his proposed reforms, the MP is advocating for the development of a nationwide “bed dashboard” – a real-time digital tracking system that links secondary healthcare facilities and displays available beds across hospitals. According to him, such a platform would enable quicker referrals and reduce dangerous delays for critically ill patients.

He argued that Ghana can adopt proven digital health solutions from other countries to improve coordination, enhance efficiency, and restore public confidence in the healthcare system.

Dr. Agyemang emphasised that meaningful reform must combine technology with improved staff attitudes and accountability.

“Why should someone be denied medical attention, especially after a road traffic accident?” he questioned, underscoring what he described as the moral duty to prioritise emergency care.