A medical laboratory scientist at the Upper East Regional Hospital, Emmanuel Frimpong, is warning that weak regulatory oversight in Ghana’s allied health sector is compromising professional standards and patient safety.
Speaking on A1 Radio’s DayBreak Upper East on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, Frimpong said the current regulatory framework places an overwhelming burden on a single body responsible for supervising nearly 30 allied health professions.
“One regulatory body is overseeing close to 30 professional groups, while in other health fields, a council focuses on just one profession. The attention is divided, and that affects quality,” he said.
Frimpong said the impact is already evident, particularly in the private health sector, where some laboratories operate below required standards.
“We have many labs that do not meet the standard, especially in the private sector, yet they continue to operate. There are individuals working in the system who are not licensed,” he said.
He also raised concerns about weak enforcement mechanisms, noting that even qualified professionals lack the authority to challenge irregularities.
“You may have the expertise and experience, but you don’t have the power to question others. That tells you the regulation is very weak, extremely weak,” he added.
Call for dedicated council
Frimpong called on the government to fulfill its pledge to establish a dedicated Medical Laboratory Council to streamline regulation and improve standards in the sector.
“The NDC government clearly stated in its manifesto that a Medical Laboratory Council would be established. We are using this platform to remind President John Mahama and the Health Minister to act on that promise,” he said.
He expressed optimism that such a council would strengthen oversight of facilities and professionals while improving institutional coordination, including support for bodies such as the Ghana College.
“If the council is established, a lot will change in the laboratory space. Even institutions like the Ghana College will be better integrated into the health system with proper government backing,” he said.
Marking Biomedical Laboratory Science Day
The interview formed part of activities marking Biomedical Laboratory Science (BLS) Day, established in 1996 by the International Federation of Biomedical Laboratory Science at its World Congress in Oslo, Norway.
The day promotes awareness of the role biomedical laboratory scientists play in healthcare delivery, including diagnosis, treatment, research and quality assurance.
The 2026 theme “Biomedical Laboratory Scientists Promoting Sustainability in Clinical Diagnostics” highlights the need for environmentally sustainable practices, reduced waste and innovation in laboratory operations.
Frimpong said the observance should also serve as a call to strengthen systems supporting laboratory professionals.
“We are central to diagnosis and treatment. Strengthening regulation is not just about us, it is about improving the entire healthcare system,” he said.
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