Korle Bu Doctors withdraw all OPD services over laboratory dispute

Doctors at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital have withdrawn all Out-Patient Department (OPD) services following an unresolved impasse between Laboratory Physicians and Medical Laboratory Scientists at the facility’s Central Laboratory.

The industrial action, announced by the Korle Bu Doctors Association (KODA), took effect on Monday, May 4, 2026. The Association says the decision comes after prolonged tensions that it believes are compromising patient safety and clinical decision-making.

In a statement issued on Sunday, May 3, KODA warned that the situation could escalate if not addressed promptly. “KODA withdraws all Out-Patient Services (OPD) from Monday, May 4, 2026. Escalation towards suspension of in-patient services will be communicated in due course,” the statement said.

The Association attributed the action to what it describes as the unlawful restriction of access to the Central Laboratory by members of the Ghana Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists. According to KODA, this has led to attempts to control who is permitted to practise in the facility.

KODA is demanding that all specialised laboratory results be reviewed and validated by qualified Laboratory Physicians before release. It is also calling for unrestricted access to laboratory systems and equipment for both clinical and academic work.

Additionally, the Association has urged hospital management to investigate alleged threats against its members and take appropriate disciplinary and protective measures to ensure staff safety and maintain operational integrity.

On policy, KODA expressed strong opposition to the proposed rollout of 24-hour specialist outpatient services, arguing that the hospital already provides round-the-clock outpatient care through the Korle-Bu Polyclinic.

Despite the disruption, the Association acknowledged the inconvenience to patients but insisted that the action is necessary.

“We regret the inevitable inconvenience to our patients; however, this action is necessary to ensure patient safety and the long-term stability and professional standards of the hospital,” the statement added.

Source: citinewsroom.com