Government pilots electronic bed management system to tackle no-bed syndrome

Ghana's government has launched an electronic bed management system aimed at tackling the country's persistent "no-bed syndrome" in hospitals. The initiative was presented by Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson during the 2027 Budget presentation in Parliament on November 12. The pilot phase of the system has already begun, with a command centre set up at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital in Ridge and the integration of the National Ambulance Service.

Dr Forson explained that the electronic bed management system is designed to improve the coordination and utilization of hospital beds, particularly in emergency units, to address the ongoing issue of no-bed syndrome. The system will provide better information on bed availability, especially for patients requiring emergency care.

"An electronic bed management system is being introduced to improve the coordination and utilization of hospital beds, particularly in emergency units to address the persistent no-bed syndrome," Dr Forson stated in Parliament.

The Finance Minister also outlined plans to strengthen pre-hospital emergency care through the National Ambulance Service. This includes the establishment of three new ambulance stations and two regional workshops, the operation of fuel and fleet management systems, and the commissioning of five main workshops across Accra, Ho, Kumasi, Takoradi, and Tamale.

Furthermore, the Minister announced that 3,550 personnel have been trained in first aid and basic life support, 220 ambulances have been insured, and accreditation has been secured for the Paramedic Training School.