A major healthcare disruption is unfolding at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital following the commencement of a phased industrial action by Medical Laboratory Professional Workers.
The Korle Bu chapter of the Medical Laboratory Professional Workers’ Union (MELPWU) began a sit-down strike on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, significantly affecting laboratory services across the hospital.
As part of the first phase, which runs until Sunday, February 8, all Outpatient Department (OPD) laboratory cases have been suspended. Only a skeleton staff has been deployed to handle emergency cases for admitted patients.
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According to a notice signed by Chapter Chairman John Kofi Nakoja, laboratory samples requiring follow-up beyond February 8 will not be accepted, indicating a gradual wind-down of operations.
While the Blood Bank and Cardiothoracic Centre laboratories remain operational, services are currently limited to intensive care cases only.
The situation is expected to worsen from Monday, February 9, when the union plans a total withdrawal of all laboratory services, including those previously exempted.
The union has also cautioned that the strike could escalate to the national level.
The action follows a statutory notice served on the Minister of Health, hospital management, and the National Labour Commission on January 27.
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The strike threatens to disrupt diagnostics, delay treatments, and postpone surgeries, posing serious risks to patient care.
Source: MyJoyOnline