The Korle Bu Doctors Association (KODA) has confirmed it will begin industrial action today, Monday, May 4, 2026, barring last-minute intervention from the government. The strike follows stalled negotiations with hospital management over long-standing operational and policy disputes.
Speaking at the weekend, the KODA’s Secretary, Dr. Joojo Nyamekye-Baidoo, stated the walkout was a final resort after multiple meetings and written appeals yielded no resolution. He warned that unless the government steps in immediately, doctors will down tools today.
He noted the primary grievance is the barring of Laboratory Physicians from the hospital’s main lab, a move KODA says has hurt clinical care and specialist training. Doctors have reportedly been kept out for years, with alleged threats worsening the standoff.
“Strike is our only remaining choice. We’ve engaged management enough, and they haven’t dealt with us honestly. Barring direct intervention from the government today, Monday, we will proceed,” he said.
He added the situation has led to inconsistent operations, forcing the hospital to rely on outside labs, such as the University of Ghana Medical School facility, for diagnostic work.
Dr. Nyamekye-Baidoo said the action, starting today, will be phased—beginning with outpatient services and possibly moving to emergency and ward care if no progress is made. He added that the Ghana Medical Association backs the move.
KODA’s demands include the immediate return of Lab Physicians and trainees to the Central Laboratory, free access to clinical systems, and merit-led lab management. They also want independent checks on specialized tests and a probe into alleged threats against members.
Furthermore, the association has rejected a proposed 24-hour specialist outpatient policy, arguing current services already suffice and that adding hours without extra staff will overburden workers and hurt patient care.
