The Ministry of Finance has recently approved the disbursement of over GH¢4 million to settle the debt of the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital (KBTH) Renal Unit Outpatient Department. This move aims to ensure the continuous functioning of the unit and address the challenges it has been facing.
Measures to prevent future closures of unit
During a parliamentary session, the Minister of Health, Kwaku Agyeman-Manu, provided insights into the measures being taken to prevent future closures of the unit. The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with KBTH and the Ministry of Finance, is considering the inclusion of dialysis treatment in the National Health Insurance Scheme. This step would not only prevent similar situations in the future but also ensure that patients have access to the necessary medical services.
Additionally, the collaboration between these entities will explore granting subsidies based on proposals received from KBTH. The review of tariffs is also being considered to ensure the long-term sustainability of the service. These measures demonstrate the government's commitment to addressing the challenges faced by the renal unit and ensuring that patients receive the care they need.
Government commitment to addressing challenges faced by renal unit
The closure of the unit prompted an urgent question in Parliament regarding the reasons behind it and the increase in kidney-related problems in Ghana. In response to this directive, the Minister of Health appeared before the House to provide clarity on the matter. Prior to his appearance, the ministry had already ordered the reopening of the unit, highlighting their dedication to resolving this issue promptly.
The Minister of Health explained that the renal unit attends to a significant number of patients, with a monthly average of 260 to 300 patients and over 2,000 dialysis procedures conducted. Currently, each patient receives a subsidy of GH¢380 per session. To further support patients who cannot afford dialysis, a Ghanaian company called Sky Group of Companies has committed to paying GH¢1 million every quarter. This initiative has allowed 230 patients to benefit from free dialysis treatment, constituting 80% of those receiving treatment at the renal unit.
Efforts to address non-communicable diseases
In line with efforts to address non-communicable diseases, the Ministry of Health and its agencies plan to continue raising awareness about prevention and early detection of renal diseases. This approach aims to reduce the burden on the health sector and minimize the impact on the renal unit.
Furthermore, plans are underway for the construction of a 100-bed urology and naphthology center of excellence at KBTH. This facility is expected to be inaugurated by the end of the first quarter of next year. The center will facilitate the provision of kidney transplantation services and contribute to reducing the burden of dialysis on both the nation and Ghanaians who currently seek such services abroad. A local team has been trained to provide these services at a reduced cost, aligning with the government's vision of making Ghana a hub for medical tourism. The successful completion of the first kidney transplant in Ghana is a testament to these efforts.
Clarification on closure of Renal Unit
The closure of the Renal Unit was initially attributed to a scarcity of essential medical consumables required for dialysis. When these consumables were finally procured, there was an unexpected increase in fees from GH₵380 to GH₵765. The hospital's Public Relations Officer (PRO) explained that this price adjustment was due to the government's withdrawal of tax exemptions, which left the hospital burdened with the full cost of importing vital medical consumables. However, the hospital's Chief Executive Officer (CEO) later clarified that tax exemptions were still in effect, but duties were paid to expedite clearance and avoid demurrage charges.
Concerns raised by Members of Parliament
In light of these developments, concerns were raised by Members of Parliament about the financial implications for patients requiring dialysis treatment. It was emphasized that GH₵4 million should not be a reason for denying critical dialysis treatment to many Ghanaians. The government and relevant authorities were urged to address any financial bottlenecks that may hinder access to this essential service.
Appreciation expressed by president of dialysis patients in Ghana
The president of dialysis patients in Ghana, Kwadwo Ahenkroah, expressed appreciation for the minister's answers and swift intervention. However, he called for further reduction in the cost per session from GH¢380 to make it more accessible to patients. Mr. Ahenkroah also expressed gratitude to the media for bringing this issue to public attention and facilitating discussions on improving access to dialysis treatment.
Summary
The disbursement of funds by the Ministry of Finance demonstrates a commitment to resolving the debt issue faced by KBTH's Renal Unit Outpatient Department. The collaboration between relevant ministries and KBTH aims to ensure continuous functioning, explore subsidy options, and review tariffs for sustainability. The government's focus on prevention and early detection, coupled with plans for a specialized center at KBTH, further highlights efforts to address renal diseases in Ghana. It is crucial that financial barriers do not hinder access to critical dialysis treatment, and ongoing discussions aim to find solutions that benefit all patients in need.
-By Monica Bellew | Mydailyreports24
0 Comments