Dr. Matilda Amissah, a medical doctor and sister of the late Charles Amissah, has launched a foundation in his memory to address critical gaps in Ghana’s emergency healthcare system. The initiative, announced recently, aims to reform emergency response and prevent tragedies like the one that befell her brother, who died in a hit-and-run incident over ten years ago due to alleged difficulties in accessing timely medical care.
Background to the Tragedy
Charles Amissah, a 29-year-old engineer, was the victim of a hit-and-run accident near the Kwame Nkrumah Circle Overpass in Accra on February 6, 2016. Despite initial attention from the National Ambulance Service, his family reports that he was subsequently denied care at several major health facilities, including the Police Hospital, Ridge Hospital, and Korle Bu Teaching Hospital. Reports at the time suggested these rejections were due to a lack of available beds.
Tragically, Amissah died while still in transit, his condition worsening without adequate medical intervention. This incident ignited national outrage and brought Ghana’s emergency healthcare infrastructure under intense public scrutiny.
The Amissah Foundation’s Mission
The foundation, established in Charles Amissah’s honour, is driven by the family’s firsthand experience and their commitment to preventing similar outcomes for other Ghanaians. Dr. Amissah stated on the radio program ‘The Pulse’ that the family has pursued justice for over a decade and is now channeling their efforts into systemic change.
Leave a Reply