The Korle Bu Doctors Association has sounded the alarm over deteriorating conditions at the Accident and Emergency Unit of the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, warning that severe congestion is endangering both patients and medical staff.

In a statement issued on March 23, 2026, the association attributed the situation to recent administrative directives that have significantly increased patient inflow beyond the facility’s capacity in terms of space and personnel.

While reaffirming their adherence to the “No Bed” policy, which ensures no patient is turned away, the doctors said the overwhelming numbers have forced them to provide care in makeshift and unsafe environments.

KODA pointed to multiple challenges arising from the situation, including delays in treatment and a heightened risk of clinical errors, which compromise patient safety.

The group also raised legal concerns, noting that attending to patients in hallways, on chairs, or on the floor exposes healthcare workers to potential liability in the event of complications.

Beyond this, the association highlighted the growing strain on staff, citing fatigue and burnout as key issues that could further affect service delivery.

They also warned of occupational health risks, including long-term physical injuries resulting from repeatedly bending or squatting to care for patients in unsuitable conditions.

Touching on a recent visit by the Minister of Health, the doctors suggested that what was observed at the time did not accurately reflect the usual state of the emergency unit, indicating that conditions may have been temporarily improved ahead of the visit.

KODA emphasised that the crisis extends beyond a shortage of beds, stressing that increasing bed numbers alone will not resolve the problem without additional staff and resources.

The association further identified broader systemic challenges within the healthcare system, particularly the inability of lower-tier facilities to manage cases effectively, leading to excessive referrals to Korle Bu.

It is therefore calling for a coordinated, nationwide response, including investment across all levels of healthcare and better referral management to ease the pressure on the facility.