The Ghana Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists (GAMLS) has cautioned that the success of the government’s directive to implement 24-hour medical laboratory services and 24-hour Out-Patient Department (OPD) services across public health facilities nationwide depends largely on adequate staffing capacity.
The caution follows a directive issued by the Minister of Health to all Teaching, Regional, and District Hospitals at the close of the Ministry of Health’s management retreat. The policy is expected to significantly strengthen healthcare delivery, particularly in emergency and critical care situations where timely diagnosis is crucial.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, January 14, GAMLS described the directive as bold, timely, and transformative, but urgedthe government to prioritize the immediate employment of qualified Medical Laboratory Scientists to ensure its successful implementation.
Also read: IGP promotes 17 police officers for professionalism and dedication
Medical laboratory services remain a cornerstone of modern healthcare, with over 70 percent of clinical decisions dependent on accurate and timely laboratory results.
According to GAMLS, the introduction of round-the-clock laboratory services will improve diagnostic turnaround times, reduce preventable delays, and enhance overall efficiency within Ghana’s health system.
“This forward-looking policy demonstrates the Ministry’s commitment to strengthening healthcare delivery and ensuring timely clinical decision-making, especially in emergencies,” the Association stated.
GAMLS noted that while many trained and licensed Medical Laboratory Scientists remain unemployed, existing laboratory staff in public health facilities are already overstretched.
“Without adequate staffing, the 24-hour service directive risks placing undue pressure on the current workforce, potentially compromising service quality, staff wellbeing, and patient safety,” the Association warned.
The Association therefore called on the government to urgently address staffing gaps through equitable recruitment and deployment, the provision of essential logistics and infrastructure, and the introduction of a planned motivation package for health professionals to sustain the directive.
“A comprehensive motivation package will be critical to sustaining round-the-clock services and ensuring improved, accessible, and quality healthcare for all Ghanaians,” the statement added.
GAMLS reaffirmed its readiness to collaborate with the Ministry of Health to ensure the effective implementation of the directive and to strengthen the diagnostic pillar of Ghana’s healthcare system.