The Ministry of Health has announced a series of emergency interventions to cushion the impact of the ongoing nationwide strike by the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA), as public hospitals struggle to deliver care amid the crisis.

Over 128,000 nurses and midwives across the country withdrew their services on May 28, 2025, citing government’s failure to implement new conditions of service that were agreed upon in 2024 under the Akufo-Addo administration. The GRNMA has vowed not to return to work until full implementation is effected.

Speaking at a press briefing at the Jubilee House on Tuesday, June 10, Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh outlined interim measures aimed at safeguarding patient care while negotiations continue.

“While working round the clock to resolve the impasse, the Ministry of Health has taken the following steps to mitigate the suffering of Ghanaian patients unduly affected by the strike,” the Minister said.

Key Measures Announced:

1. Alternative Facilities for Medical Care
The Ministry will publish a comprehensive list of health facilities across the country where patients can access healthcare services during the strike. These facilities are expected to complement those currently operating with limited nursing staff.

2. Appeal to Retired Nurses and Midwives
In a move to temporarily bridge the staffing gap, government is calling on retired nurses and midwives to volunteer their services during this critical period.

“Given the urgency of the situation and suffering of patients, government appeals to public-spirited, retired nurses and midwives to volunteer their services for a brief period pending the resolution of this impasse,” the Minister noted.

3. Acknowledgment of Serving Professionals
The Minister expressed gratitude to practicing nurses who have chosen to remain at post despite the strike, urging others to show solidarity and continue caring for patients.

“We deeply appreciate those nurses who, out of compassion, have remained at post to help patients in need. We urge others to show similar fellow-feeling as we work toward resolving their concerns.”

Minister Akandoh emphasized that the government remains open to further dialogue with the GRNMA, despite ongoing challenges. He reiterated that although the government supports the implementation of the agreed conditions of service, the provisions are not reflected in the 2025 national budget—posing significant fiscal strain.

“Government is ready to engage and resolve the impasse in a manner that ensures sustainability and avoids destabilizing the economy,” he said.

Despite a National Labour Commission injunction ordering nurses and midwives to resume work, the GRNMA strike continues, leaving countless patients across the country unattended in wards, emergency rooms, and surgical theatres.

Healthcare advocacy groups, civil society organisations, and faith leaders have called on all parties to find an urgent resolution to what is fast becoming a national health emergency.