Dr. Dacosta-Aboagye, the CEO of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), has confirmed that 40 health facilities are ready to implement the government’s Free Dialysis policy from December 1.
Speaking at a press briefing on November 26, he assured Ghanaians that all necessary preparations, including stakeholder engagements and procurement of dialysis machines, have been finalized.
The initiative, which aims to alleviate the financial burden on renal disease patients, is projected to cost the government between GHC20 million and GHC57 million annually.
Highlighting the scale of the intervention, Dr. Dacosta-Aboagye revealed that seven new dialysis machines have been cleared for use, with 23 more awaiting clearance at the ports.
With an estimated five million Ghanaians suffering from some form of renal malfunction, the program seeks to address the rising demand for dialysis services, which currently cost between GHC300 and GHC1,000 per session.
“We are working with 40 facilities initially, while waiting for others to apply. This is to ensure that no patient is left behind,” he stated, adding that facilities will submit electronic claims for prompt reimbursement.
Dr. Frank Owusu-Sekyere, Acting CEO of the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, confirmed the institution’s readiness to accommodate the expected surge in patients.
“Our renal units are prepared, and consumables are being brought in to ensure smooth operations,” he said. Currently, nearly 2,000 patients are on dialysis nationwide, each requiring at least four sessions weekly.
