Hospitals under stress from influx due to strike

Accra, April 11, GNA - The strike action embarked upon by nurses of the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital has led to an influx of patients at some hospitals in Accra with its attendant strain on medical resources, facilities and staff.

Dr. Ernest Owusu-Afriyie, Medical Officer-in Charge at the Police Hospital, told the Ghana News Agency that the hospital is choked with patients especially at the out patients department and thus putting the staff under stress and medical supplies running out.

"It is the usual situation whenever health personnel lay down their tools. The maternity wards are especially vulnerable because of the work load. Some nurses are even having a hard time changing into prescribed uniforms before assisting in deliveries."

Dr. Owusu-Afriyie said now only emergency surgeries are being undertaken to contain the influx. At the Ridge Hospital the situation appeared to be similar but attempts to get the Medical Superintendent to comment proved futile as she was not prepared to talk to the press.

At the La Polyclinic, Dr. Felicia Bart-Plange, Kpeshie Sub-District Medical Officer, said the polyclinic has buffer stocks to cope with any shortage and also their referral point, which is the Ridge Hospital, would help to control any influx.

Authorities at the 37 Military hospital could not be reached but the situation appeared to be no different.