Doctors at KATH suspend all surgical cases following water crisis

Doctors at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) in Kumasi have announced the suspension of all surgical cases with immediate effect due to a water shortage that has hit the hospital since last week.

In a memo dated March 25, 2025, the Komfo Anokye Doctors Association informed management the action is in the best interest of patient’ safety and security.

“This memo is to formally inform management of the decision taken by the Orthopaedic and Emergency Directorate to temporarily halt the admission of new patients until the availability of water is restored,” the memo read in part.

According to the Association, the directorate is faced with severe challenges due to an ongoing water shortage. This, the doctors say “has significantly affected the provision of essential healthcare services”.

It noted that though water is a critical resource in maintaining hygiene, conducting surgical procedures, and ensuring patient care and safety, the resource is in short supply at the facility, compromising patient care in general.

“Despite efforts to manage the situation, the current lack of water has reached a critical point, compromising both patient safety and healthcare delivery,” said the memo.

Chairman of the Komfo Anokye Doctors Association (KADA), Dr Michael Leat, who apologised on behalf of his colleagues over the impact of their action, said the Association will continue to attend to existing cases.

“We sincerely apologies for any inconvenience this may cause and kindly request management’s urgent intervention to address the water crisis. The directorates will continue to manage existing patients to the best of our ability, while prioritizing safety and hygiene,” he said.

The association, however, called for alternative water sourcing options while receiving regular updates on the water situation.

Meanwhile, management of KATH explains the Ghana Water Company Limited is yet to restore water supply to the hospital since the curtailment of service last week.

“We are at the moment depending on alternative sources which have proven inadequate due to the huge volumes of water required for our operations on daily basis.

“At the moment, apart from KATH own sources, the GNFS, KMA and the GWCL are pitching in with alternative supplies, but they are not enough to meet our operational needs. We are in constant touch with the Regional office of the GWCL to expedite the repair works which occasioned the cessation of water supply to the hospital,” said the Public Relations Directorate.