The Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) says it is compelled to keep hundreds of patients admitted beyond their medical discharge dates due to their inability to settle hospital bills, a situation that is worsening congestion and straining the facility’s resources.
According to the Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Paa Kwesi Baidoo, patients who are medically fit for discharge often remain on admission for days or weeks because of unpaid bills, occupying beds needed for new and emergency cases. He explained that while the practice contributes significantly to overcrowding, the hospital cannot discharge patients without payment due to accountability and audit requirements.
Dr. Baidoo noted that delayed discharges disrupt ward admissions, emergency care and surgical schedules, as patients awaiting beds cannot be transferred from emergency units or theatres. He added that the backlog places additional pressure on recovery units and overall hospital operations.
The KATH CEO further indicated that the hospital’s national appeal and reputation for specialised care have increased patient inflow, compounding congestion challenges. Hospital authorities warn that the situation has led to limited bed availability, delayed surgeries and mounting financial pressure, including difficulties in settling supplier payments.