Free Dialysis Program to Begin December 1 to Combat Kidney Disease
The free dialysis initiative marks a significant milestone in Ghana’s healthcare delivery system. With kidney diseases on the rise, this program is expected to save lives and bring hope to countless families.
The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) is set to launch a free dialysis treatment program for renal patients on December 1, 2024, according to NHIA CEO, Dr. Da Costa Aboagye. The initiative aims to alleviate the financial burden on Ghanaians struggling with the high cost of dialysis treatment.
Speaking at a meeting with heads of hospitals and renal units in Accra, Dr. Aboagye confirmed that the program will be available in 40 health facilities, including private hospitals, across Ghana.
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Relief for Renal Patients
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Dr. Aboagye emphasized the program’s objective of providing accessible and life-saving care to kidney disease patients. “This ambitious program will provide relief to many Ghanaians who, until now, could not afford the cost of dialysis,” he said.
Ahead of the program’s rollout, the NHIA will meet with facility heads on November 26 to finalize implementation plans and ensure a smooth start on December 1.
Sustainability Assured
Addressing concerns about sustainability, Dr. Aboagye assured the public that the NHIA has sufficient funds to support the program in the long term.
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“We have budgeted approximately 57 million cedis annually for this program. The funding will be drawn from the National Health Insurance Levy (NHIL), which continues to perform well due to strong tax revenues,” he explained.
He also noted that the program is projected to last for at least a decade and is fully integrated into the NHIA’s benefits package. “This means that even with a change of government after the December 7 elections, the free dialysis service will remain operational, as it is backed by the constitution,” he added.
Transforming Renal Care
The free dialysis initiative marks a significant milestone in Ghana’s healthcare delivery system. With kidney diseases on the rise, this program is expected to save lives and bring hope to countless families.
Dr. Aboagye concluded by urging patients and healthcare providers to work together to ensure the program’s success: “We are committed to putting smiles on the faces of those who need this critical care the most.”
By Madjid Diallo | GhanaNewsOnline.com.gh
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