The University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC) has firmly rejected allegations made by Ghanaian American comedian and philanthropist Michael Blackson concerning the medical care provided to his late mother, describing several claims shared on social media as inaccurate while reaffirming its commitment to patient confidentiality, professional healthcare delivery and due process.
Addressing the allegations the Centre said it had taken serious notice of comments made by Mr. Blackson on 4 August 2026 regarding the treatment of his 83-year-old mother, who died at the hospital on 16 July 2026 after being referred from another healthcare facility.
While extending its deepest condolences to Mr. Blackson and his family, UGMC maintained that it had thoroughly and objectively reviewed the concerns raised and concluded that the public narrative does not accurately reflect the circumstances surrounding the patient’s care during her nearly eight-week admission.
“We value every patient’s and family’s experience and treat all concerns with the seriousness they deserve. However, our review established that several of the claims circulated publicly do not accurately represent the events surrounding the patient’s care,”
UGMC
UGMC emphasized that although it disputes aspects of the allegations, it remains legally and ethically bound to protect the confidentiality of every patient’s medical information, including after death.
The Centre explained that respect for patient dignity and family privacy prevents it from publicly disclosing details relating to diagnosis, treatment, medical records or the clinical decisions taken during the patient’s admission.
Management stressed that its decision not to release further medical information should not be interpreted as an inability to respond but rather as adherence to established ethical standards governing healthcare practice.
According to the statement, safeguarding confidential medical information remains a core institutional responsibility that cannot be compromised, regardless of the level of public interest surrounding a case.
Clinical Decisions Guided by Professional Standards
Addressing concerns about the quality of care, UGMC stated that every clinical decision concerning the late patient was made exclusively by qualified healthcare professionals using established medical protocols and sound clinical judgment.
The Centre noted that healthcare decisions are always guided by what is considered to be in the patient’s best interest and, where required, are undertaken in consultation with designated and authorized family representatives.
Management also dismissed suggestions that financial considerations influence clinical care, explaining that billing and administrative procedures operate independently from medical decision-making and are governed by institutional policies designed to ensure transparency and accountability.
The hospital reiterated that professional integrity remains central to its operations and that all healthcare services are delivered within internationally accepted standards of medical practice.
“Clinical judgment at the Centre is exercised solely by qualified healthcare professionals, while administrative and financial processes remain separate from decisions concerning patient treatment,
UGMC
Assault Allegation Referred to Law Enforcement
The Centre also responded to reports concerning an alleged physical assault involving Mr. Blackson’s sister and a member of staff during the period surrounding the patient’s admission. According to UGMC, the matter has already been referred to the appropriate law enforcement authorities for investigation.
Management indicated that because the issue is now before the relevant authorities, it would be inappropriate to comment further in order not to prejudice ongoing investigations. The hospital reaffirmed its commitment to cooperating fully with lawful investigative processes while respecting the rights of all individuals involved.
Institution Open to Private Engagement Despite rejecting key elements of the allegations, UGMC said it remains willing to engage constructively with Mr. Blackson and his family through appropriate institutional channels.
Management indicated that any specific complaints of professional misconduct involving members of staff would be investigated comprehensively, with disciplinary or legal action taken wherever necessary. The Centre stressed that maintaining accountability within the institution remains an important aspect of delivering quality healthcare services.
It further expressed appreciation to the public for its patience and understanding as it works through the issues raised with fairness, professionalism and respect for all parties.
The statement underscored that patient and family feedback whether positive or critical plays an important role in improving healthcare delivery and strengthening institutional performance.
UGMC encouraged members of the public with concerns about services received at the hospital to use its established complaints and client engagement mechanisms.
According to Management, the Client Services Unit remains available to receive concerns, investigate complaints and facilitate appropriate resolutions through official procedures.
The Centre said encouraging direct engagement enables issues to be examined fairly while protecting the rights and dignity of both patients and healthcare professionals. Management reaffirmed that transparency, accountability and responsiveness remain integral to the hospital’s service delivery framework.
Commitment to World-Class Healthcare
The University of Ghana Medical Centre concluded by reaffirming its commitment to providing high-quality, patient-centred healthcare while advancing medical education, research and specialist clinical services.
The institution noted that it remains focused on delivering world-class healthcare built on professionalism, ethical practice and respect for patients and their families.
Jointly owned by the Ministry of Health and the University of Ghana, UGMC said it will continue to uphold the highest standards of clinical excellence while ensuring that every concern brought before the institution is handled through established administrative and professional processes.
The Centre expressed confidence that adherence to due process, ethical obligations and continuous engagement with patients and their families will remain essential to sustaining public trust in Ghana’s healthcare system as it continues to strengthen the quality of specialist medical services.
READ MORE: Upper West Regional Hospital Commissions Expanded Dialysis Unit
