The Korle Bu Doctors Association (KODA) has sounded the alarm over worsening conditions at the Accident and Emergency Centre of the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, warning that severe overcrowding is putting both patient safety and staff wellbeing at risk.
In a press statement issued on March 23, 2026, the Association revealed that recent administrative directives have led to a sharp increase in patient admissions, far exceeding the facility’s available space and human resources.
While reaffirming their commitment to the “No Bed” policy—which ensures that no patient is turned away—doctors say the resulting congestion has forced healthcare delivery under unsafe and improvised conditions.
According to KODA, the current situation has significantly compromised patient care, with delays in treatment and a heightened risk of medical errors becoming increasingly common. Doctors also raised concerns about medico-legal risks, noting that treating patients on floors, in chairs, or in hallways could expose healthcare professionals to legal consequences in the event of adverse outcomes.
“Providing emergency care on the floor, in chairs, or in hallways places doctors at immense legal risk,” the statement noted.
The Association further highlighted the physical and mental toll on healthcare workers, citing growing levels of burnout and exhaustion. It warned that these conditions could further deteriorate the quality of care provided to patients. Additionally, doctors pointed to occupational hazards such as long-term spinal injuries resulting from repeatedly bending or squatting to attend to patients on the floor.
KODA also addressed a recent visit by the Minister of Health, suggesting that the conditions observed during the visit did not accurately reflect the day-to-day realities of the emergency unit. The group indicated that temporary measures may have been implemented ahead of the visit, masking the usual state of the facility.
Beyond the immediate challenges, the Association stressed that the crisis reflects broader systemic issues within Ghana’s healthcare system. It noted that many lower-level health facilities lack the capacity to manage cases effectively, leading to excessive referrals to Korle Bu.
“The bigger problem revolves around the capacity of other hospitals that are referring these patients. Any number of beds provided in Korle Bu would be filled up in no time,” the statement added.
KODA is calling for a comprehensive, system-wide approach to address the crisis, including increased investment in healthcare infrastructure, improved staffing levels, and better coordination across all levels of care.
The Association warned that without urgent intervention, the current situation could further deteriorate, posing even greater risks to both patients and healthcare workers.
