The Ghana National Ambulance Service has strongly denied claims that its Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) are poorly trained. The Service called the assertion "sweeping" and potentially damaging to public trust. This statement comes in response to comments made by Professor Agyeman-Badu Akosa. He chairs a committee investigating a specific death.
Professor Akosa allegedly described EMTs as "poorly trained" during a TV programme on May 20, 2026. The Ghana National Ambulance Service issued a press release on Friday, May 22, to counter these remarks. The Service insists that its EMTs receive thorough training. This includes both theory and practical skills. Qualified medical professionals deliver this training. Doctors, emergency physicians, paramedics, and nurse specialists are involved.
The National Ambulance Service has been providing emergency care for over two decades. It responds to numerous medical emergencies, accidents, and disasters. It also handles inter-facility patient transfers. The Service stressed that its EMTs are certified to practice within their professional scope. They undergo regular assessments to maintain standards. The management views the allegations as an attack on their dedicated staff. They work in difficult, high-pressure situations to save lives.
A statement from the Service highlighted that the claim could erode public confidence in a vital health institution. However, the Service acknowledged the investigative committee's work. It welcomed efforts to improve Ghana's emergency healthcare system. The Service is undertaking reforms to enhance its training programs. It is reviewing and expanding its curriculum for both Basic and Advanced EMT training. These changes aim to strengthen skills and modernise training methods. The goal is to improve service delivery across Ghana.
Further reforms include upgrading current certificate-based EMT training. These will become diploma and degree-awarding programmes. This aims to align Ghana's emergency medical training with global best practices. The National Ambulance Service is committed to ongoing professional development. EMTs will receive regular refresher courses and capacity-building initiatives. This ensures they remain competent and efficient. The Service assures the public of its commitment to timely and quality pre-hospital emergency care.
The management expressed its unwavering dedication to professionalism and competence. Ambulance personnel save lives daily, often under challenging conditions, the statement added. The public can rely on the Service for effective emergency medical response.