The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has issued a directive banning the collection of fees for the use of washrooms in all its health facilities.
The move, which takes immediate effect, is aimed at safeguarding patient dignity and improving public health standards.
The directive follows growing public concern over reports that some hospitals and clinics were charging patients and visitors between GH¢0.50 and GH¢2 to access washrooms — a practice the GHS now describes as exploitative and inappropriate within a healthcare setting.
In a circular dated April 16, 2025, and signed by Acting Director-General Prof. Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, all Regional Directors have been instructed to ensure the immediate cessation of these charges. The circular warned that failure to comply would attract sanctions against the heads of non-compliant facilities.
“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 stated.
The GHS further directed Regional Directors to ensure full enforcement of the directive and notify all heads of facilities for strict compliance.
Beyond ethical considerations, the Service stressed that clean and accessible washrooms are essential for maintaining hygiene, preventing infections, and promoting public health.
READ ALSO: