A Physician Assistant, Alfred Aliah, has urged Ghanaians to become familiar with the country’s Patient Charter, stressing that every patient has a legal right to quality healthcare, privacy, confidentiality and active participation in decisions concerning their treatment.
Speaking on the Big Mike Breakfast Show on Tuesday, June 30, Aliah described the Patient Charter as an important legal framework that protects both patients and healthcare providers while promoting quality healthcare delivery.
He explained that the Patient Charter, established under the Health Institutions and Facilities Act, 2011 (Act 829), guarantees every individual equitable access to healthcare regardless of geographical location, ethnicity, religion, gender, age or disability.
According to him, the charter was introduced to ensure patients understand both their rights and responsibilities while fostering stronger relationships between healthcare providers and the public.
Aliah noted that every patient has the right to receive adequate information about their health condition, diagnosis, available treatment options and the risks associated with any proposed treatment before giving informed consent.
“The patient is entitled to full information regarding his or her health condition, the management plan and the risks associated with that management,” he said.
He further explained that patients are entitled to know the identity, professional designation and registration details of the healthcare professionals responsible for their care.
“When you visit any health facility, you have the right to know who is taking care of you, the person’s name, professional category and registration or membership identification number,” he stated.
Aliah also underscored the importance of patient privacy and confidentiality, emphasizing that all information disclosed during consultations, examinations and treatment must be safeguarded.
“Whatever information the patient shares with you must remain confidential. It is a professional obligation that should be respected at all times,” he said.
He added that patients have the legal right to seek a second medical opinion, request another healthcare provider where necessary, and decline treatment after healthcare professionals have adequately explained the benefits, risks and possible consequences of such a decision.
“The patient has the right to refuse treatment. Our responsibility is to explain the condition, the available treatment options and the associated risks so the patient can make an informed decision,” he explained.
Aliah encouraged the public to educate themselves on the provisions of the Patient Charter, expressing confidence that increased awareness would strengthen trust between patients and healthcare professionals while contributing to improved healthcare delivery across Ghana.
Mike 105.3FM I Navrongo | Elizabeth Apusaama
