Doctors at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital have suspended all Out-Patient Department (OPD) services following an unresolved impasse between Laboratory Physicians and Medical Laboratory Scientists at the facility’s Central Laboratory.
The action, taken by the Korle Bu Doctors Association (KODA), began on Monday, May 4, 2026, following what the group describes as prolonged disagreements between Laboratory Physicians and Medical Laboratory Scientists, which it says is affecting clinical operations and patient safety.
In a statement issued on Sunday, May 3, KODA announced the immediate withdrawal of services, warning that the situation could worsen if urgent steps are not taken to resolve the impasse.
“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.
According to the association, the action has become necessary due to what it calls the unlawful restriction of access to the Central Laboratory by members of the Ghana Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists. KODA alleges that the development has created attempts to control who is allowed to practise within the facility.
The doctors are also demanding that all specialised laboratory results be reviewed and validated by qualified Laboratory Physicians before they are released. In addition, they are calling for unrestricted access to laboratory systems and equipment to support both clinical and academic work.
KODA has further urged hospital management to investigate alleged threats against its members and implement measures to ensure staff safety and safeguard professional standards within the hospital.
On broader policy issues, the association has also expressed opposition to the proposed introduction of 24-hour specialist outpatient services, arguing that similar round-the-clock care is already being provided through the Korle-Bu Polyclinic.
While acknowledging the inconvenience caused to patients, KODA maintains the industrial action is necessary to protect patient safety and preserve the integrity of healthcare delivery at the facility.
“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.
