Korle Bu CEO Raises Alarm Over Rampant Theft of Medical Equipment
Dr. Frank Owusu Sekyere, the Acting Chief Executive Officer of Korle Bu Teaching Hospital (KBTH), has issued a stern warning against the increasing incidents of theft involving critical medical equipment at the facility.
Speaking during a media tour and inspection of ongoing construction projects at the hospital on Monday, Dr. Sekyere revealed that thieves had been cutting and stealing copper pipes that supply oxygen to patients in the various wards.
“People cut parts of the copper pipes. Imagine a patient is on oxygen, and suddenly, it stops because someone has stolen the pipe. It’s a life-threatening situation that severely undermines healthcare delivery,” he lamented.
Copper Pipe Theft Endangering Patient Lives
The hospital has been battling rampant copper theft, with criminals targeting oxygen supply lines to sell as scrap metal. Over the past weekend, security officials managed to apprehend some individuals attempting to steal cables from the premises.
“The case has been reported to the Korle-Bu Police Station for further investigations and possible prosecution,” Dr. Sekyere stated.
Financial Burden on the Hospital
Beyond the life-threatening consequences, these thefts have placed a heavy financial burden on the hospital. Dr. Sekyere disclosed that the replacement cost for stolen copper pipes currently stands at a staggering GH₵400,000, despite thieves selling the stolen materials for as little as GH₵50 in the scrap market.
“It is ridiculously expensive trying to fix these copper pipes. Somebody steals a chunk of it for scrap, and we are paying through our noses just to have it replaced,” he lamented.
Security Measures Intensified
In response to the alarming trend, the management of Korle Bu Teaching Hospital has taken decisive steps to strengthen security.
- Surveillance systems: CCTV cameras have been installed, although Dr. Sekyere admitted that real-time monitoring remains a challenge.
- Enhanced security personnel: The hospital is in the final stages of engaging private security personnel to reinforce its internal security team.
- Perimeter wall upgrades: Ongoing construction includes the hospital’s perimeter wall, which is expected to enhance security and prevent unauthorized access.
Appeal to the Public and Scrap Dealers
Dr. Sekyere made a passionate appeal to scrap dealers and the general public to be vigilant and report any suspicious individuals attempting to sell stolen hospital equipment.
“The impact of these thefts goes beyond financial loss—it directly affects patient care. We are urging the public to help stop this menace before it leads to fatal consequences,” he cautioned.
Despite these challenges, Dr. Sekyere reassured Ghanaians that Korle Bu’s oxygen plant remains fully operational and capable of meeting patient demands.
“Oxygen may have occasional challenges, but with the right services and maintenance, we are committed to ensuring a consistent supply,” he concluded.
Ongoing Renovation Projects at Korle Bu
The media team also visited several key construction and renovation sites within the hospital, including:
- The Maternity Block
- Ward E
- Orthopaedic Ward (Ward H)
- Oxygen Plant
- Perimeter wall construction
These projects aim to improve healthcare delivery and enhance security at Ghana’s premier teaching hospital
SOURCE : DEW360.NET
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