The Ghana Medical Association(GMA) has mourned the departed souls among the group who have been killed by the novel coronavirus.

In a tribute to the deceased members, the Association described the demise of the four souls as a big loss to the medical fraternity.

“The National Executive Committee of the Ghana Medical Association informs all members with deep sorrow the unfortunate demise of four members of the association who have sadly succumbed to COVID-19 since the outbreak of the diseases in the country. These fallen heroes have contributed immensely to the medical profession and their untimely demise constitutes a big loss to the fraternity. May their souls rest in perfect peace”, the GMA noted.

Members of the Association have thus been urged to on Monday, July 6, 2020, observe a minute silence in honour of the gallant soldiers of the medical fraternity, during their clinical meetings.

Deceased Members

Those who have succumbed to the virus include a consultant physician and former Rector of the Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons, Professor Jacob Plange-Rhule, who passed away in April at the University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC).

Also Dr. Harry Boateng, a Specialist Paediatrician and Medical Superintendent at the Kwadaso SDA Hospital was also remembered.

A retired Orthopaedic Surgeon, Dr. Emmanuel Twagirayesu as well as Dr. Richard Kisser, a Consultant Surgeon with the Trust Hospital were both remembered.

Over 150 Medical Practitioners hit with the virus

At least 150 medical doctors and dentists in Ghana have also contracted the virus since the outbreak in March 2020.

“The GMA further wishes to bring to the notice of all members that over 150 medical doctors and dentist have been infected with SARS-COV 2 since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in the country. In view of the unfortunate increasing trend of infections among health workers, all members should consciously ensure their safety at all times in the care of all patients regardless of the point of care.

“The National Association Committee of GMA wishes to assure all members that it is working assiduously to tenure the concerns about inadequate PPE delays in testing and other member welfare issues related to COVID-19 are addressed by the government and will not relent.”