President John Mahama has emphasised practical approaches to healthcare delivery, announcing that  “No Bed Syndrome' must be a thing of the past.

'You don’t need to have a comfortable bed to treat a patient during an emergency,” highlighting efforts to improve medical services beyond infrastructure.

On food security, Mahama stated GHS 300 million has been committed to the National Food Buffer Stock Company to stabilise prices and build emergency reserves, mopping up excess produce.

In housing, the President announced plans to construct 50,000 housing units for teachers, part of broader initiatives to support social sectors.

President John Dramani Mahama has issued a firm directive to healthcare providers across the country, warning that no patient in critical condition should be refused treatment on account of a lack of hospital beds. He stressed that emergency medical attention is a fundamental obligation and must not be compromised under any circumstances.

His remarks come in the wake of the tragic death of 29-year-old Charles Amissah, who reportedly sought help at three leading hospitals in Accra but was not attended to.

The incident has sparked public outrage and renewed scrutiny of emergency response systems within the health sector.

Speaking to the nation on Friday, February 27, the President detailed a series of interventions aimed at improving healthcare access and strengthening service delivery nationwide.

Central to the plan is the expansion of the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, which he said will be enhanced to provide broader support for patients requiring specialised treatment.

He also announced plans to widen access to advanced heart care, including cardiac catheterisation services, at Tamale Teaching Hospital, Korle- Bu Teaching Hospital, and Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital. According to him, boosting these facilities will reduce the need for patients to seek expensive treatment abroad and help establish Ghana as a hub for specialised medical care within the sub-region.

Additionally, he has tasked the Ministry of Health with developing clear protocols to eradicate what has become known as the “no bed” practice.

The President underscored that in life-threatening situations, care must be delivered promptly — even during shift changes — to prevent avoidable loss of life.

“This year, the government will fully roll out a free primary healthcare programme, removing all cost barriers at the primary level where it is mostly needed, while strengthening prevention, screening, and health promotion, especially for non-communicable diseases.

“You do not need to have a comfortable bed to save a patient. No patient must be turned away from any health facility they report to,” he said.