The University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC) has denied allegations made by Ghanaian-American comedian Michael Blackson over the treatment of his late 83-year-old mother, saying the claims circulating on social media contain “numerous inaccuracies”.
In a statement issued on August 5, 2026, the hospital said it had reviewed the concerns raised by Mr Blackson and found that his public account did not accurately reflect the circumstances surrounding his mother’s care.
Mr Blackson had posted a video on social media on August 4 in which he criticised the hospital’s management over the treatment of his mother, who died at the facility on July 16, 2026.
In the video, the comedian claimed his mother received poor care, was repeatedly misdiagnosed, and that some members of staff appeared more concerned about payments than her wellbeing.
UGMC expressed sympathy to Mr Blackson and his family but rejected the allegations.
“We wish to state unequivocally that the facts presented by Mr. Blackson on social media contain numerous inaccuracies and do not accurately reflect the events that transpired in the provision of medical care,” the hospital said.
According to UGMC, the patient was referred from another hospital and remained under its care from May 27 to July 16, 2026, a period of about eight weeks.
The hospital declined to release details of the patient’s diagnosis, treatment, or medical records, citing its legal and ethical duty to protect patient confidentiality, even after death.
“Out of respect for the dignity of the deceased and the privacy of her family, we will not disclose or discuss in the public domain the details of any patient’s diagnosis, treatment, medical records, or account of care,” the statement said.
UGMC maintained that all clinical decisions are made by qualified medical professionals in line with accepted standards of care and with patients’ best interests at the centre.
The hospital also dismissed suggestions that financial considerations influence medical decisions, explaining that its billing and financial procedures are handled separately from clinical care.
Addressing Mr Blackson’s allegation that a staff member assaulted his sister during the family’s interactions with the hospital, UGMC said the matter had been referred to the appropriate law enforcement authorities and would not comment further.
“The matter has been referred to the appropriate law enforcement authorities. We do not therefore consider it appropriate for the Centre to comment on it at this time,” the hospital stated.
UGMC said it remains open to engaging with the family through the appropriate channels and assured the public that any specific allegations of staff misconduct would be investigated and referred to the relevant authorities where necessary.
The medical centre also encouraged patients and members of the public with concerns about its services to contact its Client Services Unit for review and resolution.
