A Physician Assistant, Alfred Aliah, has urged patients to provide accurate and complete medical information when seeking healthcare, stressing that honesty is a key responsibility under Ghana’s Patient Charter and is essential for effective diagnosis and treatment.
Speaking on the Big Mike Breakfast Show on Tuesday, June 30, Aliah explained that although the Patient Charter guarantees patients several rights, it also places important responsibilities on them to support quality healthcare delivery and improve treatment outcomes.
According to him, patients are expected to disclose their complete medical history, lifestyle habits, allergies and any medications they are currently taking or have recently used, as incomplete or inaccurate information can adversely affect clinical decisions.
He noted that healthcare professionals depend on truthful information from patients to make safe and informed decisions regarding diagnosis and treatment.
“When you’re going to the hospital, you are sick. Don’t go there and give some information and keep others. Give accurate information because it helps us know how best to manage you,” he said.
Aliah further advised patients to adhere to prescribed treatment plans, take medications as directed, attend scheduled review appointments and promptly report any adverse reactions or side effects experienced during treatment.
He cautioned that failure to comply with treatment instructions or missing follow-up appointments could result in complications, treatment failure or prolonged illness that might otherwise have been prevented.
He also encouraged patients to seek clarification whenever they do not understand a diagnosis, prescription or any medical advice provided by healthcare professionals.
“If there’s anything you don’t understand, it is your responsibility to seek further clarification. Don’t keep quiet and assume,” he advised.
Aliah further urged patients to inform healthcare providers of any challenges that could affect their ability to follow prescribed treatment, including financial difficulties or personal circumstances, to enable health workers to explore suitable alternatives.
He also called on patients to observe cleanliness within health facilities, respect hospital regulations and treat healthcare workers and fellow patients with courtesy, describing these as essential responsibilities that contribute to a safe and conducive healthcare environment.
Aliah concluded that quality healthcare is a shared responsibility between patients and healthcare providers, adding that increased public awareness of both patient rights and responsibilities under the Patient Charter would strengthen Ghana’s healthcare system and improve health outcomes.
Mike 105.3FM I Navrongo | Elizabeth Apusaama
