Medical laboratory professionals at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital have commenced a phased industrial action that could severely disrupt healthcare delivery at Ghana’s largest referral facility, with a complete shutdown of laboratory services expected next week.
The Korle Bu chapter of the Medical Laboratory Professional Workers’ Union (MELPWU) began a sit-down strike on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, significantly scaling down laboratory operations across the hospital.
Phased Strike Already Disrupting Diagnostic Services
The first phase of the industrial action, which runs until Sunday, February 8, has already restricted access to critical diagnostic services for thousands of patients.
In a strike notice signed by Chapter Chairman John Kofi Nakoja, union members were directed to suspend all Outpatient Department (OPD) laboratory services during this period. Only a limited number of staff are assigned to handle emergency cases for admitted patients.
The notice further indicated that laboratory samples requiring follow-up beyond February 8 will not be accepted, signaling a deliberate and gradual reduction of services ahead of the next phase of the strike.
Limited Services Still Operating for Critical Care
As of now, the Blood Bank and Cardiothoracic Centre Laboratory remain operational, but strictly for critical care patients. Routine diagnostic services have been suspended, leaving many patients without access to essential tests.
Hospital sources say the reduced operations are already affecting patient flow, particularly in outpatient clinics and elective procedures that rely heavily on laboratory results.
Total Shutdown Planned for February 9
The situation is expected to worsen on Monday, February 9, 2026, when MELPWU plans a complete withdrawal of laboratory services at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital.
The planned shutdown will include the Blood Bank and Cardiothoracic Centre Laboratory, effectively crippling one of the hospital’s most vital diagnostic systems.
The union has also warned of a possible escalation at the national level, raising concerns that the industrial action could spread to other health facilities across the country if negotiations fail.
Background to the Industrial Action
The strike follows a statutory notice of intended industrial action served on the Minister of Health, Korle Bu Management, and the National Labour Commission on January 27, 2026.
Although MELPWU has not publicly outlined its specific demands, such actions typically stem from unresolved concerns related to conditions of service, allowances, logistics, staffing levels, and workplace safety.
Healthcare Delivery at Risk
Health experts warn that a prolonged shutdown of laboratory services could paralyse non-emergency healthcare at Korle Bu, leading to delayed diagnoses, postponed surgeries, disrupted patient monitoring, and increased pressure on emergency services.
They have urged all parties to engage in urgent dialogue to avert a full-scale disruption that could have nationwide health implications.
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