Armed robbery attacks on ambulance crews and persistent hospitals’ refusal to admit emergency patients are undermining emergency care in Asuogyaman, the National Ambulance Service has warned.
Mr Stephen Quansah, Asuogyaman District Director of the service, told the District Health Directorate’s Annual Performance Review in Senchi that the threats put personnel and patients at risk despite efforts to improve response.
He recalled repeated attacks, including a 2021 incident at Somanya in which officer Abraham Tetteh was shot in the eye by robbers during an emergency run, and a March 2, 2026, attack on a Kpasa‑based team returning from an assignment in Nkwanta North.
Mr Quansah said such assaults endanger crews and could delay lifesaving responses.
He also criticised hospitals that continue turning away emergency and referral cases, the “No Bed Syndrome,” linking the practice to the death of 29‑year‑old engineer Henry Amissah after a hit‑and‑run.
“These challenges directly affect our ability to save lives,” he said.
The Service handled 111 emergency cases in 2025, down slightly from 115 in 2024.
Data showed most patients were aged 15–44, while cases involving people over 60 rose sharply from 29 in 2024 to 43 in 2025.
Medical emergencies remained the largest category, followed by trauma, paediatric and maternal cases.
Mr Quansah said that the district still lacked basic office tools, such as computers, printers, and photocopiers, which is slowing administration.
He added that misuse of sirens by motorists and hearses obstructs ambulances and delays care.
Still, he said public feedback remained largely positive, with many praising ambulance crews’ professionalism.
He urged stronger cooperation between facilities and the Service to ensure prompt admissions.
“I am urging motorists to give way to ambulances,” he said, warning that delays can be fatal. He reaffirmed the Service’s commitment to saving lives but said the persistent challenges continue to strain emergency care.
