Korle Bu debunks report on ventilator shortage, clarifies ICU capacity

Korle Bu Teaching Hospital has refuted a publication by The News Centa dated May 11, 2026, which suggested that the hospital is facing a critical shortage of ventilators and an overstretched healthcare system. Hospital authorities described the report as "inaccurate and misleading," stating that it failed to present a balanced account of the situation and did not seek clarification prior to publication. Management also dismissed claims that the hospital has a bed capacity of 2,400, describing the figure as incorrect and not reflective of its current operational capacity.

The hospital stressed that it is not experiencing a crisis regarding ventilators. Ventilatory support is currently available in 24 of the hospital's 28 theatres, as well as in specialised units such as the Surgical Block, Plastic Surgery and Burns Centre, National Cardiothoracic Centre, Medical ICU, Paediatric ICU, Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department, and the Accident and Emergency Centre. The hospital noted that it has recently received additional ventilators from the Ministry of Health, alongside donations from Newmont Ghana, with more support expected from the Ghana Medical Trust Fund.

Management explained that these interventions are part of ongoing efforts to strengthen critical care delivery and expand intensive care capacity in line with international healthcare standards. Ventilator allocation is structured to ensure that ICU support is available across key clinical departments, in line with global benchmarks for hospital care. The hospital urged media organizations to exercise accuracy, balance and professionalism in reporting on healthcare matters, cautioning against publications that may create unnecessary public anxiety.