The Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) is set to significantly enhance its renal care services by doubling its dialysis machines from seven to 14. This expansion aims to address the increasing demand for dialysis treatment and improve healthcare delivery for patients with kidney conditions.
Prof. Otchere Addai-Mensah, CEO of KATH, revealed that the initiative is made possible through strategic collaborations and the hospital's Internally Generated Funds (IGF). The Ghana Airport Company Limited (GACL) recently donated two dialysis machines, while six additional machines, acquired at a cost of 2.8 million Ghana cedis through IGF, are expected to be operational by the end of November.
Responding to Rising Demand
The need for dialysis services at KATH has grown substantially, with monthly sessions increasing from 80 to 300. Prof. Addai-Mensah attributed this surge to the growing prevalence of kidney-related illnesses and the government's free dialysis care program under the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).
“With the free dialysis program, we’ve enhanced accessibility to critical treatment, significantly reducing the financial strain on patients,” he said.
Previously, KATH operated with only two functional dialysis machines, which left many patients seeking care at private facilities. This expansion not only eases the pressure on the hospital but also ensures more equitable access to life-saving renal care.
National Efforts to Strengthen Dialysis Infrastructure
The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) is also taking steps to support the growing need for dialysis services. Dr. Dacosta Aboagye, CEO of NHIA, confirmed that the authority is in the process of procuring additional dialysis machines through the Public Procurement Authority.
“We are committed to ensuring that hospitals have the necessary equipment to meet patient needs, as part of our broader goal to fully fund free dialysis programs nationwide,” Dr. Aboagye stated.
Broader Healthcare Improvements at KATH
This expansion is part of a larger effort by KATH to enhance healthcare delivery across various departments. The hospital recently organized a forum with senior specialists and consultants to identify strategies for improving clinical services.
The additional dialysis machines will not only accommodate more patients but also reduce the strain on existing resources, ensuring timely and effective care. With a growing number of patients referred from across Ghana, the expansion reinforces KATH’s role as a leading healthcare provider.
This development reflects KATH’s commitment to addressing Ghana’s rising burden of kidney diseases, ensuring improved access to critical care and positioning the hospital as a leader in renal health services.
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