The Medical Laboratory Professional Workers’ Union (MELPWU) is demanding the immediate return of Dr. Michael Amo Omari to his position as Head of Laboratory Services at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital. This call comes amid an ongoing dispute concerning leadership and administration within the hospital's Central Medical Laboratory.
MELPWU says these disputes are negatively affecting how the laboratory is run and how well it serves patients. The union has also called for disciplinary steps against Dr. Asare Offei for comments perceived as hurtful to the lab's test results. They want all changes to the lab's leadership structure, job roles, and reporting lines to be undone.
This situation at one of Ghana's main referral hospitals highlights wider issues of governance within public health institutions. Such disputes can cause delays in essential services and affect the confidence of both patients and healthcare providers in the system. Previous reports have shown challenges in public hospital administration across the country, impacting service delivery and resource allocation.
In a statement, MELPWU’s Dr. Cephas Kofi Akortor expressed deep worry about the situation. He mentioned that a key stakeholder meeting planned by the Ministry of Health was postponed until May 18, 2026. MELPWU proposed May 19 for the next meeting, showing their urgent desire to resolve the issues.
The ongoing uncertainty could harm the laboratory's accreditation status and overall stability. MELPWU stated its demands are fixed and cannot be negotiated. The union stressed that the dispute is about professional standards and fairness, not personal issues. They also clarified that laboratory scientists have not blocked doctors from accessing the lab, countering rumours of conflict.
MELPWU acknowledged efforts by the National Labour Commission and the Ministry of Health. They asked all parties to avoid comments that could worsen the situation. The union pledged to pursue the matter through legal and official channels, protecting the integrity of medical laboratory services in Ghana.