Ghana Health Service Bans Washroom Fees in Hospitals to Uphold Patient Dignity and Public Health
ACCRA, April 20, 2025 — The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has officially banned the collection of fees for the use of washrooms in all health facilities across the country. The directive, which takes immediate effect, aims to reinforce public health standards and preserve patient dignity.
The move follows widespread public outcry over reports that some hospitals and clinics were charging between GH¢0.50 and GH¢2 for patients and visitors to access basic sanitary facilities—a practice the GHS now condemns as exploitative and inappropriate.
In a strongly worded circular dated April 16, 2025, signed by Acting Director-General Prof. Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, all Regional Directors have been instructed to ensure strict compliance across their jurisdictions.
“The washrooms must at all times be kept clean and comfortable to prevent the risk of infection, improve perception of patient care quality, and increase patient satisfaction,” the circular noted.
The directive stresses that any facility head who fails to comply will face sanctions. It reinforces the principle that access to sanitary facilities in healthcare environments is not a luxury, but a basic human right and essential public health measure.
The GHS added that beyond the ethical implications, denying patients access to clean and free washroom facilities can severely compromise infection control and undermine overall care standards.
This directive marks a significant policy shift that puts patient welfare at the center of health delivery services and is expected to be closely monitored nationwide.
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