The Ministry of Health (MoH) has urged the leadership of the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) to rescind its decision to embark on an industrial action in the interest of the Ghanaian patient.
This follows a decision by the GRNMA to embark on strike warning that their actions, if not treated with urgency would have a negative impact on healthcare especially, as there is surge of mpox cases in the country.
This was revealed by the President of the GRNMA, Perpetual Ofori Ampofo when addressing the press on Wednesday May 28,2025.
According to the roadmap, the strike will start with symbolic protests from June 2 to 3, 2025, during which members will wear red arm or headbands at work.
This will escalate from 4th to 8th June 2025, with a complete withdrawal of all Outpatient Department (OPD) services, including public health services, antenatal care (ANC), and specialist clinic services.
Reacting to the development, the Ministry of Health in a statement issued on May 28, said, it is “shocked and surprised” by the turn of events especially after several engagements with the sector Minister.
The Ministry admitted that although the Conditions of Service has been reviewed and set to take effect in 2024 under the erstwhile government, implementation has been delayed.
It added that “At the last meeting it was agreed that a Committee comprising representatives from the GRNMA, the Ministry of Health be formed to continue the process”.
The Ministry however described as inappropriate the use of patients “as leverage in the demand for the implementation of a collective bargaining agreement is not the appropriate course of action.”
It added that it has demonstrated good faith in their situation and urged the leadership of the GRNMA to do same for the benefit of the country’s health system.