By Lawrence Odoom/Phalonzy
A deepening rift at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital has culminated in the complete withdrawal of all Out-Patient Department services, as doctors decry a protracted conflict that they say jeopardizes clinical integrity and patient welfare.
The Korle Bu Doctors Association (KODA) declared the industrial action effective Monday, May 4, 2026, following an unresolved impasse between Laboratory Physicians and Medical Laboratory Scientists at the hospital’s Central Laboratory. The Association warns that the deadlock is eroding standards of care and compromising diagnostic precision.
In a statement released Sunday, May 3, KODA signaled that further escalation remains on the table if redress is not swift. “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.
At the heart of the dispute, KODA alleges unlawful obstruction of the Central Laboratory by members of the Ghana Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists, asserting that the move seeks to dictate who is authorized to practice within the facility.
The Association is demanding that all specialized laboratory results be rigorously reviewed and validated by qualified Laboratory Physicians prior to release. It is further insisting on unfettered access to laboratory systems and equipment for both clinical and academic mandates.
KODA has also called on hospital management to launch an immediate probe into reported threats against its members and to institute disciplinary and protective measures to safeguard personnel and preserve institutional integrity.
On broader policy, the Association voiced resolute opposition to the proposed implementation of 24-hour specialist outpatient services, contending that the hospital already delivers round-the-clock outpatient care via the Korle-Bu Polyclinic.
While acknowledging the disruption to patients, KODA maintained that the action is indispensable.
“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.