GRNMA strike continues: emergency services stretched nationwide

The strike by the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) is severely affecting healthcare delivery across the country. Emergency services have been withdrawn, leaving patients especially those in vulnerable communities stranded at various hospitals.

Speaking on 3FM’s Midday News with Beatrice Adu on June 4, GRNMA General Secretary Dr. David Tenkorang-Twumasi confirmed that although discussions with the Minister of Health were cordial, they produced no solutions.

“We met him yesterday, he wanted to understand exactly the nuances of the issue,” he said. “He appealed to us to rescind our decision, but after we explained the issues to him, he saw that we had a point.”

Despite the dialogue, Dr. Tenkorang-Twumasi emphasized that the strike would continue. “The discussion was fruitful, but it fell short. We were very exact in our demands. There is nothing new on the table that justifies calling off the strike.”

According to reports, Dr. Pelpuo has pledged to consult key figures like Dr. Ato Forson and the Health Minister to resolve the issue. Still, GRNMA insists that without concrete action, the industrial action will proceed. Health advocates are urging the government to act swiftly, warning of strain on an already burdened healthcare system.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health has outlined emergency measures. A meeting on May 30 brought together the Ministry and stakeholders such as the Union of Professional Nurses and Midwives, the Ghana Registered Midwives Association, and others. They jointly demanded enforcement of a 2024 Collective Agreement, which they claim has been ignored.

While most groups agreed to continue offering services, the GRNMA held firm on striking. In response, the Ministry activated emergency plans to keep hospitals running.

According to spokesperson Tony Goodman, the Ministry will collaborate with quasi-government facilities to absorb patient overflow. Rotational nurses and those in training have been asked not to join the strike. Directors of Nursing and unit heads are instructed to stay on duty, and emergency services, including the ambulance system, are to remain active.

Despite disruptions, the Ministry continues to appeal to GRNMA to reconsider its stance, assuring that negotiations are ongoing.