The General Secretary of the Ghana Medical Association (GMA), Dr. Richard Selormey, has strongly criticized the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) for issuing a strict 72-hour deadline to 91 hospitals, warning them to settle their outstanding bills or face disconnection.

Dr. Selormey highlighted the impracticality of the three-day ultimatum given the substantial combined debt of GH¢261 million owed by the health facilities to ECG. He questioned the rationale behind targeting the healthcare sector, which contributes only 4.5% to ECG’s overall debt.

“Why target healthcare when there are larger debts outstanding?” Dr. Selormey queried during an interview on JoyNews’ PM Express.

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Expressing concern over the potential repercussions on patient care, Dr. Selormey called for further dialogue between ECG and stakeholders, urging the company to reconsider its ultimatum.

The notice issued by ECG on Wednesday, March 13, threatened disconnection to notable hospitals including Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, 37 Military Hospital, Ridge Hospital, Komfo Anokye Hospital, and others across various regions.

ECG’s move is part of a broader effort to recover customer debts and enhance operational efficiency.

Dr. Selormey emphasized the unreasonableness of the 72-hour deadline, asserting that it would not be feasible for any facility to comply within such a short timeframe. He also stressed the importance of transparency in healthcare costs, suggesting potential cost-sharing measures if the government cannot fully cover expenses.

Warning of a unified response from the healthcare sector in case of disconnections, Dr. Selormey cautioned that observers would closely monitor the aftermath of any such actions.