'Choke system' driving Ghana's no-bed syndrome - Former Korle Bu CEO
Dr. Opoku Ware Ampomah described Ghana's persistent "no-bed syndrome" as the result of a "choke system" within the healthcare delivery chain, rather than a simple shortage of beds. He spoke at the Conversations Under the Baobab Tree event organised by the PRESEC Old Boys Association on Thursday, April 30, 2026.
Dr. Ampomah said that inefficiencies at various points in the patient care process are clogging the system, preventing smooth movement of patients and creating pressure at emergency units. He explained that the "choke system" is driven by multiple structural challenges, including patients who remain in hospital beds after discharge due to unpaid bills, as well as inefficiencies in patient management. He also pointed to gaps in emergency triage processes, noting that delays in prioritising critical cases further compound congestion in hospitals. He added, "The emergency room is not a place for first come, first served. It is a place where the one with the most urgent need has to be seen first."
The event, held under the theme "The No-Bed Syndrome in Ghana: Improving Emergency Healthcare," highlighted the need for system-wide reforms to unclog patient flow and improve efficiency across healthcare facilities.
Quick Summary
Dr. Opoku Ware Ampomah, former CEO of Korle Bu, addresses Ghana's persistent "no-bed syndrome". He points to a "choke system" within healthcare delivery - but what exactly is causing this bottleneck?
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