Nobody has the right to close part of public hospital without my consent – Health Minister

Minister of Health Kwabena Mintah Akandoh has defended the suspension of the Chief Executive Officer of the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH), Dr. Paa Kwesi Baidoo, stating that no individual has the authority to close any section of a public health facility without the approval of the Health Minister.

Addressing Parliament, Mr. Akandoh said the decision was based on the principle that public health institutions operate under the oversight of the state through the Ministry of Health.

“Nobody, absolutely nobody in this country has the right to close any portion of a public health facility without the consent of the state, in this case the Minister,” he stated.

He reiterated that no part of a public health facility can be shut down without prior approval from the Health Minister.

According to the Minister, the legal framework governing teaching hospitals clearly outlines the authority of the Minister in matters relating to the administration and operation of such institutions.

Citing Section 36 of the relevant law, Mr. Akandoh argued that hospital boards are required to comply with directives issued by the Minister.

“Section 36 clearly establishes that whatever the Minister directs, the board shall apply same,” he said.

The Minister further maintained that ministerial directives are binding on hospital boards and management, stressing that the Minister retains ultimate oversight authority over decisions affecting public health facilities.

“The decision of the Minister is not subject to the review of the board. It is the decision of the board that is subject to the review of the Minister,” he added.

His remarks come amid public debate over the suspension of Dr. Baidoo and the extent of ministerial authority in the management of public health institutions.