Exploring the causes of low reporting of medico-legal issues in Ghana: perspectives of key informants in the health sector

Abstract

Objective: The study aimed at exploring factors leading to medico-legal issues and why they are under reported.
Methodology: This was a qualitative study in which 16 key informants were interviewed with a semi-structured questionnaire. Ethical approval was obtained from the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA) Ethical Review Board. Data was analysed thematically. A written informed consent was obtained from each participant.
Results: A medico-legal issue arose if the standard of care was perceived to have been breached or when a complaint was not managed according to the complainant’s expectations. Reasons for low reporting included the long emotionally exacting and expensive adjudication process. Additionally, procedures at the facilities to address complaints are considered non-transparent and prejudicial. Finally, interviewees were credulous believing in predetermined death. They have the attitude of ‘leave judgement to God.’ Even if the victim wants to take the matter up, others may impress upon them to stop it.
Conclusion: The study concludes that factors leading to medico-legal issues include a breach in the approved standard of care of the patient and whether the complainant is unhappy with the handling of the matter. The emotionally and financially exacting nature of dealing with these issues, and the perceived unfair processes account for the low reporting. Belief in fatalism is a contributory factor.