The University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC) has issued a formal demand for a retraction and apology from Ghanaian American comedian Michael Blackson following a recent statement characterizing the hospital as the ‘worst in Ghana.’
UGMC asserts that Blackson’s remarks have severely damaged the institution’s reputation and fail to accurately reflect the hospital’s clinical standards or overall performance. Speaking on the JoyNews Desk on August 10, Director of Medical Affairs Dr. Baffour Gyan stated, ‘To come out and say UGMC is the worst hospital that one I disagree totally,’ he said.
UGMC is actively pursuing Joint Commission International (JCI) accreditation, a critical step toward international recognition and attracting medical tourism, as part of its broader strategy to improve quality and patient care. The hospital’s management has rejected allegations of misdiagnosis or negligence concerning Blackson’s 83-year-old mother. Dr. Gyan explained that the patient was referred from another facility with a severe infection and subsequently admitted to UGMC for eight weeks, including six weeks in the Intensive Care Unit.
He asserted that clinicians adhered strictly to established treatment protocols throughout her admission, stating, ‘For diagnosis and management, 100% we did not do anything wrong.’ Dr. Gyan further clarified that the infection responsible for her death was ultimately the cause of her demise.
While expressing condolences to the Blackson family, Dr. Gyan acknowledged the profound emotional impact of losing a loved one, even amidst efforts to provide care. UGMC has confirmed that its legal team has formally contacted Blackson regarding his social media comments. Dr. Gyan indicated that the hospital is seeking a retraction and apology, and is awaiting Blackson’s response.
‘Our lawyers have written to him just for him to retract and apologise for all that he said on social media,’ he stated, emphasizing the hospital’s commitment to addressing the situation.
The situation has generated considerable public concern within the medical community and among individuals familiar with UGMC’s operational history, raising questions about the hospital’s reputation and the potential impact of Blackson’s statements. The incident underscores the delicate balance between professional criticism and potential reputational damage, particularly within a high-profile institution like UGMC.
Source: MyJoyOnline
