Central Laboratory

Comprehensive 24-hour diagnostic services in microbiology, chemical pathology, haematology, and immunology.

Overview

At the Laboratory Department, or the Lab Sub-BMC as it is fondly referred to, we are dedicated to providing exceptional diagnostic services that support and enhance patient care. Our comprehensive offerings span multiple specialties, including Microbiology, Chemical Pathology, Hematology, and Immunology. Operating through a state-of-the-art Central Laboratory, we also feature specialised satellite laboratories tailored to specific healthcare needs: Child Health Laboratory, Maternity Laboratory, Fevers Unit Laboratory, and Chest Clinic Laboratory. Our team of skilled professionals is committed to delivering accurate and timely diagnostic services, ensuring the highest standards of patient care.

Our Leadership & Staff

The Laboratory Department is led by Acting Head of Department Dr. Michael Omari, with Administrator Mrs. Hannah Reynolds, Pharmacist Samuel Dzisah, and Accountant Owusu Ansah. We are committed to delivering precise, efficient, and compassionate diagnostic services to support your healthcare journey.

Our Services

Clinical chemistry and biochemistry (routine and urgent)
Haematology and coagulation studies
Microbiology and culture sensitivity
Clinical immunology and serology
Routine Analytical Service - covers >80% of workload with same-day reporting
Batched Analytical Service - samples pooled and processed on specific days
Urgent 24-hour Analytical Requests for critical cases
Outpatient same-day reporting (requests before 12:00 PM)
Inpatient same-day results
Specimen collection, labelling, and transport guidance
Quality control and WHO-accredited continuing education

Operating Hours and Reporting

- 24-hour service for all routine tests. - Outpatients: Reports for requests received before 12:00 PM are available the same day. - Inpatients: Results are available the same day. - Turnaround time: ~80% of routine requests are processed within 3 hours of receipt. - Patients must present their receipt of payment at the result collection point to collect test results.

Specimen Collection and Handling

Proper specimen collection and prompt delivery are essential for accurate results. Blood and Urine Sample Collection: Avoid prolonged stasis during blood draws. Prevent contamination (e.g., no mixing with IV fluids). Do not transfer blood between containers. Keep timed urine collections refrigerated. Specimen Labeling and Documentation: Label specimens with Name, Date, Time, and Test Requested (unlabeled samples are rejected). Complete all details on the request form. Use birthdates to distinguish patients with similar names. Specimen Transport: Deliver specimens to the designated collection point immediately. Place samples in individual biohazard bags (request forms in separate pockets). Never send samples in syringes with needles or syringes alone.

Urgent Sample Requests

- 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM: Contact the Officer/CSO. - 5:00 PM - 8:00 AM: Contact the BMS on duty. - Public holidays: Arrangements vary; contact the lab for details. - Urgent results are communicated via phone or delivered by staff/patient's relatives.

Appointments

Appointments are confirmed 3 days before sampling. Required on sampling day: Two recent passport-size photos (full face, no hats/dark glasses), Original ID (Passport, Driver's Licence, Voter's ID, National ID, or NHIS card), and Certified birth certificate (for children).

Training and Education

We offer Continuing Education Programmes for staff (WHO Accreditation, Quality Control, Customer Care), as well as practical training for Resident Doctors, Medical Students, and Allied Health Science Students.

Documents & Downloads

Handbook for Central Laboratory ServiceThe full user guide to the laboratory: test menus for Chemical Pathology, Haematology, Microbiology and Immunology; specimen collection, labelling and transport requirements; sample acceptance and rejection criteria; turnaround times; order of draw for multiple blood collection; dried blood spot (DBS) collection; reference ranges; and departmental telephone extensions.PDF · 4.8 MB · 43 pages · Ref. KBTH-CL/CS/0711 · Effective 1 March 2026

Facilities & Equipment

State-of-the-art Central Laboratory
Child Health Laboratory (satellite)
Maternity Laboratory (satellite)
Fevers Unit Laboratory (satellite)
Chest Clinic Laboratory (satellite)
Specimen collection and result collection points