AI can assist healthcare, but cannot replace compassion – Health Minister

Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh has emphasized that while Artificial Intelligence (AI) can assist healthcare professionals by easing their workload, it cannot replace the vital aspects of compassion, dignity, and respect that are essential in patient care. During a surprise visit to the Weija-Gbawe Children’s Specialist Hospital, the Minister stressed that AI lacks the capability to show compassion to patients, highlighting that human connection is the heart of healthcare.

He voiced his satisfaction with the hospital's recent operations and directed the rapid recruitment of 10 medical doctors and 30 nurses and midwives to bolster the staff and support the growth of services. The Minister also called for the hospital to maintain its facilities and equipment to high standards, and assured his ministry's continued backing to tackle any remaining issues and ensure patients receive top-notch care.

Acting Medical Superintendent, Dr Nana Okine Brago, mentioned that the hospital, with around 120 beds, opened its doors on August 17, 2026, functioning as a secondary-level referral center. He added that preparations were underway to introduce inpatient services, following the addition of more health personnel. This visit is part of the Ministry's ongoing mission to inspect health facilities, pinpoint operational hurdles, and ensure the optimal use of public health infrastructure to boost access to quality healthcare and improve patient outcomes.