Gov’t to roll out integrated bed management system to end ‘no bed syndrome’ – Deputy Health Minister

The Deputy Minister of Health, Prof. Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah, has announced plans by government to roll out an Integrated Bed Management System aimed at addressing Ghana’s persistent “no bed syndrome” crisis across public health facilities.

In a phone interview with Kojo Preko Dankwa on Kessben Maakye, Prof. Ayensu-Danquah acknowledged that since assuming office, the ministry has taken note of the deep-rooted challenges within the healthcare system, stressing that the problem goes beyond the mere unavailability of hospital beds.

Touching on the services, she dealt with improper attitude of some healthcare givers cautioning them about their approach and response to patients.

According to her, the proposed Integrated Bed Management System will ensure that every hospital designates a Bed Management Officer or department responsible for monitoring and updating available beds in all wards in real time.

“This information will be disseminated to the ambulance service to enable them to make informed referrals, especially in emergency cases,” she explained.

The Deputy Minister noted that leveraging technology will help prevent unnecessary movement of critically ill patients from one hospital to another due to lack of bed space — a situation that has in some cases led to avoidable deaths.

She emphasized that the system is not new to her, revealing that she has previously implemented similar measures abroad in her capacity as a trauma surgeon.

“It can be done here,” she assured.

Prof. Ayensu-Danquah further disclosed that a formal proposal has already been submitted for approval, expressing optimism that once implemented, the system will significantly improve emergency response coordination nationwide.

In addition to bed management concerns, she raised issues about ambulance personnel competence and accreditation. She indicated that there must be a thorough assessment of the skills of personnel in every ambulance.

“For the past five years, some have not even had accreditation,” she stated, calling for urgent reforms to strengthen the quality of pre-hospital emergency care.

The announcement comes amid growing public frustration over the “no bed syndrome,” which has remained a critical concern within Ghana’s healthcare delivery system.