The Refusal Of ‘Emergency’ Patients

Over the years, I have witnessed and personally experienced a disturbing trend within the healthcare system: the increasing refusal of emergency patients by hospitals, and health facilities, particularly in Monrovia. This situation raises serious questions about the commitment of some healthcare institutions to their primary mission of saving lives, and serving humanity.

In 2018, our family faced one of the most painful experiences imaginable. Our mother, a registered, and experienced nurse, who had dedicated much of her life to caring for others, became critically ill. We transported her to several major hospitals in Monrovia seeking urgent medical attention. At every facility, we were turned away. Some hospitals cited a lack of available beds, while others claimed: “there was no medical personnel available to care for her.”

Despite the seriousness of her condition, no immediate solution was offered. We were left with no choice, but to return home, helplessly watching her condition deteriorate. It was heartbreaking to see someone, who had spent her life serving in the healthcare profession denied care when she needed it the most.

Sadly, a similar situation occurred in 2024, when my father-in-law required emergency medical attention. Once again, we encountered the same barriers, and the same painful reality. The institutions we trusted to provide lifesaving care appeared unable, or unwilling to respond effectively to a patient in distress. We struggled to find assistance while valuable time slipped away.

Most recently, in 2026, tragedy struck our family again. My nephew, a healthy, and promising young man of only 35 years old, suddenly collapsed while driving in Congo Town. A passenger he had given a ride courageously attempted to help him by rushing him to medical facilities for emergency treatment. He was taken to two major hospitals, yet neither accepted him for care. One facility reportedly declined, “because of capacity issues, while another failed to provide the urgent attention his condition demanded.”

Desperate attempts were made to save his life. He was first taken to a faith-based hospital where he urgently needed emergency intervention, but he was reportedly turned away. He was then transported to one of the largest hospitals, where we were informed that no beds were available. Again, no emergency attention was provided. He was later taken to another nearby private hospital, but by then, it was too late. A young man with his entire future ahead of him lost his life while moving from one healthcare facility to another in search of care.

These repeated experiences force us to ask difficult, but necessary questions. Are hospitals, and health facilities truly fulfilling their mandate to preserve life, especially during emergencies? What guidance is being given to nurses, doctors, and administrators regarding the treatment of emergency patients? Are financial considerations, resource constraints, or systemic failures preventing healthcare providers from responding appropriately when lives are at risk?

The situation is deeply troubling, “because Liberia has benefited from significant investments in the health sector over the years.” International partners, government institutions, faith-based organizations, and private investors have contributed millions of dollars toward strengthening healthcare infrastructure, and services. Yet many ordinary citizens continue to encounter barriers when seeking emergency medical care. The gap between investment, and patient experience appears to be growing rather than shrinking.

There is an increasing perception among many Liberians that compassion, and concern for vulnerable patients are diminishing within parts of the healthcare system. While healthcare workers face genuine challenges, including limited resources, staffing shortages, and difficult working conditions, no family should be left watching a loved one die simply, because emergency care was unavailable, or inaccessible.

When healthcare providers stop responding effectively to emergencies, the consequences extend beyond individual families. Public confidence in the healthcare system begins to erode. Citizens become fearful, doubtful, and uncertain about where to turn during medical crises. The very institutions that should provide hope, and assurance instead become symbols of frustration, and despair.

This issue cannot be ignored, and it cannot simply be attributed to salary concerns, or compensation challenges. A more comprehensive examination is required. There is an urgent need for research, policy review, and accountability to identify the root causes behind the refusal of emergency patients. Such research should examine staffing levels, hospital admission policies, emergency response protocols, resource availability. This management practices, and ethical standards governing patient care.

Ultimately, every life matters!!

About the author: Teah Doegmah previously work with other colleagues in health at the Johns Hopkins University, Center for Communications Program, including Africare, Rebuilding of Basic Health Services, etc.