Check New Price for Dialysis in Ghana which some says it’s illegal to Increase
Check New Price for Dialysisis in Ghana which some says it’s illegal to Increase
The Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital (KBTH) has implemented a significant increase in the cost of renal dialysis treatment, sparking outrage among Ghanaians who are worried about its affordability.
Dialysis is a vital procedure for individuals suffering from kidney failure, but its high cost has been a barrier for many in Ghana.
Public discontent is growing, with individuals and celebrities alike speaking out against the price hike.
Actor, Farmer and politician John Dumelo called for the inclusion of dialysis treatment in the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) to make it more accessible.
KBTH has explained that the price increase was prompted by high taxes and import duties on consumables, which are no longer exempted.
This development may soon affect other regional hospitals across the country, raising concerns about access to life-saving treatment.
Additionally, Ranking Member on Parliament’s Health Committee, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has labeled the price increase as illegal, stating that the hospital should have consulted parliament before altering fees.
What’s Happening ?
The Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital (KBTH) has drawn widespread criticism as it announces a substantial increase in the cost of renal dialysis, a vital treatment for individuals suffering from kidney failure. The decision has raised concerns about the accessibility of this life-saving procedure in Ghana, where many already struggle with the financial burden of healthcare.
The dialysis Price has been increased from GH¢380 that people can’t afford to GH¢765.
KBTH responded to the backlash by disclosing that they had privately met with patients to discuss the fees. The hospital also resumed routine operations at the dialysis center after receiving essential renal consumables. Mustapha Salifu, the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of KBTH, explained that the interruption in treatment occurred due to contractual issues with suppliers.
KBTH’s Public Relations Officer, Mustapha Salifu, attributed the price hike to the removal of tax exemptions on consumables, citing high taxes and import duties. He warned that reverting to the old price might force the dialysis center to shut down in a matter of days.
The concern is now whether this increase in dialysis costs will extend to other regional hospitals in the country, potentially limiting access to life-saving treatment for even more Ghanaians.
Credit; citinewsroom.com, myjoyonline.com
