- Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital refutes claims of detaining patients over unpaid bills
- Patients staying beyond discharge are often facing financial challenges, not detention
- KATH acknowledges help from charities and organisations assisting patients
The Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) in Kumasi has refuted allegations that it detains patients who are unable to settle their medical bills.
In a press release dated January 12, 2026, the hospital’s management said it had taken note of recent media reports suggesting that some patients were being held at the facility over unpaid bills, describing the claims as untrue.
“KATH does not detain patients under any circumstances,” the statement stressed.
Management explained that situations where patients remain in the wards after being medically discharged are usually due to financial difficulties faced by patients or their families in paying treatment costs, and should not be interpreted as detention.
The hospital noted that such patients continue to receive medical care, meals, and essential support while arrangements are made to address their outstanding bills. It also acknowledged the assistance of benevolent individuals, corporate organisations, faith-based institutions, and other groups that occasionally help patients settle their debts.
KATH urged the media and the public to refrain from circulating misleading information about its operations, cautioning that such reports could erode public trust.
The hospital reaffirmed its commitment to providing quality healthcare with compassion, professionalism, and respect for the dignity and rights of all patients.
