99% of patients who come to Korle-Bu survive and return home - CEO

The Chief Executive Officer of Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, Dr. Opoku Ware Ampomah, has dispelled rumors that Korle-Bu is a "death warrant" for patients who go to the facility.

According to him, negative news has affected the health facility, making people feel unsafe seeking medical care there.

Speaking during the closing ceremony of Korle-Bu’s maiden edition of Health Fest and photo exhibition, a three-day event aimed at showcasing the hospital’s activities to the public on August 30, 2024, Dr. Ampomah stated that, according to their records, 99% of the people who go there get healed and return home healthy.

“Because of negative news, when someone is referred to come to Korle-Bu, they feel they are going to die. You will be surprised that because of that, some of them stay away for many years and months, and by the time they report for healthcare, the situation would have worsened and nothing could be done. This reinforces the negative stereotype that at Korle-Bu, when you go there, you are going to die.

“There are thousands of people who always come to Korle-Bu, receive their treatment, and are doing well. We are not saying we are perfect, but you are part of the process in helping us to improve.

“Sometimes when people are asked to come to Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, it seems like they are coming to a place of no return. But we admit 150-250 patients every single day, and I will say that 99% of them get their problem solved and go back home. But there is a thing around Korle-Bu,” he said.

The exhibition, which forms part of the hospital’s centenary celebrations, commenced on August 28 and ended on August 30, 2024.

Dr. Ampomah emphasized that the Health Fest is not only a celebration of the hospital's rich history but also a platform for reflecting on its impact and legacy.

"The Health Fest includes free health screenings open to the public, which began today and will run until the end of the event. This initiative is part of our broader commitment to holistic healthcare provision, ensuring the total well-being and healing of our patients," Dr. Ampomah stated.

He further explained that the event serves as an opportunity for healthcare stakeholders to address pressing issues and collaboratively find solutions for the future.

The exhibition brought together key players in the health sector, including the National Ambulance Service, among other stakeholders, to highlight the collaborative spirit that has driven the hospital’s success over the past century.

AM/BB

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