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The University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC) has officially launched its 2026 Customer Service Week, running from October 5 to October 9. This year’s celebration, themed "The Extra Mile," aims to reinforce the institution’s commitment to providing compassionate, patient-centered care. The initiative seeks to highlight the essential role each staff member plays in the recovery and well-being of patients, focusing on service excellence across all departments of the facility.
During the launch event, UGMC Chief Executive Officer Dr. Abdul-Samed Tanko emphasized that providing medical treatment alone is insufficient for a positive patient outcome. He noted that every interaction—from the security desk to the surgical ward—must be characterized by kindness, empathy, and a deep understanding of the patient's needs. Dr. Tanko urged the medical and administrative teams to adopt a mindset that goes beyond basic duties to ensure that every visitor feels valued and supported throughout their journey at the medical centre.
Chief of Staff Dr. Julius Debrah further underscored the significance of the theme, pointing out that patients and their families are often at their most vulnerable when seeking healthcare services. He argued that a culture of excellence in service provision is a moral imperative, as a positive attitude can significantly alleviate the anxiety associated with illness and hospitalization. Other speakers at the ceremony echoed these sentiments, calling for a long-term shift in institutional culture that prioritizes the "human element" of healthcare delivery.
The week-long celebration includes a series of activities designed to both honor high-performing employees and provide professional development. Scheduled events include staff recognition awards, educational seminars on customer relations, and interactive sessions aimed at identifying and resolving service gaps. By the end of the week, the UGMC leadership hopes to have established new benchmarks for service quality that will lead to sustainable improvements in patient care and operational efficiency at the hospital.