This announcement was made by Minister of Health Dr. Bernard Okoe-Boye during the commissioning of the Urology and Nephrology Centre at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital. In June 2024, the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) announced a free six-month dialysis support program for renal patients, which will run from June to December.
Amid concerns about sustainability and calls for government intervention, Minister of Health Dr. Bernard Okoe-Boye addressed these issues during the commissioning of the Urology and Nephrology Centre. He emphasized the ministry’s commitment to supporting dialysis patients.
Dr. Okoe-Boye stated, “If you’re 60 years and above, your dialysis sessions are covered by the government through the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS). For children aged 18 years and below, all your sessions are fully funded by the government through the NHIS. With your GHC 8 renewal of your health insurance for the year, you can access all the sessions you need. For those aged 18 to 60 years, the President has authorized NHIS to cover two out of the average four sessions you receive each week.”
He also stressed the importance of professional staff at the new center adopting a strong maintenance culture.
“We will use this facility as a pilot to dispel the notion that government facilities are not cared for. The maintenance and performance of this facility will determine the continued leadership and positions of those managing it,” he stated.
The Acting Chief Executive Officer of Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, Dr. Frank Owusu-Sekyere, emphasized the importance of the center and urged for legislation to be enacted to support its initiatives.
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, who inaugurated the center, was present at the event.
“By the close of 2024, we expect the completion of several key healthcare projects, including the construction of 11 district hospitals and one polyclinic in the Ashanti, Eastern, Greater Accra, and Ahafo regions. It is my singular honor and pleasure to officially declare the Urology and Nephrology Centre of Excellence at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital duly commissioned,” the President stated.
This announcement provides relief to many dialysis patients, as the cost of treatment has become a significant burden, resulting in some tragically losing their lives.
