The management of the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital has called on Ghanaian musician Mzbel to provide detailed information to assist an investigation into her allegation that her sister died after she was reportedly denied admission due to the unavailability of a hospital bed.
The hospital’s appeal follows a viral video in which Mzbel emotionally recounted the circumstances surrounding the death of her 46-year-old sister, identified as Leila. According to the musician, her sister was rushed to Korle Bu in critical condition but was allegedly unable to receive immediate treatment because the facility had no available beds. Mzbel claimed the delay contributed to her sister’s death, reigniting public debate over Ghana’s longstanding “no-bed syndrome” in public health facilities.
Hospital Launches Investigation
In a statement issued on July 7, Korle Bu said it treats all allegations concerning patient care with the utmost seriousness and has already begun efforts to establish the facts surrounding the incident.
Management disclosed that it has so far been unable to make direct contact with Mzbel or her family to verify the claims and is therefore appealing to them to cooperate with the investigation.
“Management is calling on Mzbel to provide the necessary information to enable us investigate the claims made in the video,” the hospital said.
The hospital said investigators are seeking to determine several key issues, including:
- Whether the patient was formally referred to Korle Bu.
- Whether she arrived at the hospital and sought admission.
- Whether admission was denied because no bed was available.
- The exact sequence of events leading to her death.
“No Emergency Patient Should Be Refused”
Korle Bu reiterated that it remains bound by the government’s policy that no emergency patient should be denied treatment at a public health facility.
Management noted that following President John Dramani Mahama’s directive during the 2026 State of the Nation Address, the hospital’s Board reinforced measures to ensure compliance with the policy. These include increasing bed capacity and reminding all clinical departments of their obligation to provide emergency care.
The hospital warned that any staff member found to have deliberately refused emergency treatment would face a thorough investigation and possible disciplinary action.
Public Reaction
Mzbel’s emotional account has generated widespread discussion on social media, with many Ghanaians sharing similar experiences and calling for reforms to address overcrowding and resource constraints in major referral hospitals.
Health advocates say the incident has once again highlighted the need for increased investment in hospital infrastructure, expanded emergency care capacity and improved patient management systems across the country.
Hospital Extends Condolences
While investigations continue, Korle Bu expressed its condolences to Mzbel and her bereaved family, assuring the public that the matter would be reviewed fairly, professionally and transparently once all the relevant information has been obtained.
The hospital also encouraged patients and their relatives to use its official complaints channels—including its telephone lines, online complaints portal and QR-code reporting system—to report concerns for prompt investigation and resolution.
