By Ashiadey Dotse
Dr. Da-Costa Aboagye, CEO of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), during the GTV Breakfast Show with Thelma Tackie, says that the government is set to implement free dialysis treatment under the NHIA starting December 1, 2024.
This initiative aims to address the challenges faced by Ghanaians suffering from end-stage kidney disease.
The program builds on a pilot project launched in July, which provided eight free dialysis sessions to patients aged under 18 and over 60 while offering subsidies for those aged 19 to 59.
The pilot, conducted across six dialysis centers, benefited 400 patients, though it originally anticipated 700.
Dr. Aboagye explained that the pilot was designed to gather data and test the feasibility of a nationwide program.
“The data collected helped us plan effectively. Based on our research, Ghana has between 800 and 1,200 patients needing dialysis annually, depending on the prevalence rate of end-stage kidney disease,” he stated.
Under the new plan, all NHIA-credentialed public and private facilities will provide dialysis at a government-approved cost of GHC 491 per session. The NHIA will cover these costs, ensuring patients receive eight sessions monthly, which is the medical standard. For patients requiring additional sessions, NHIA will review the cases for approval.
Expanding Access Nationwide
Currently, six centers are operational, but NHIA is onboarding an additional 40 facilities across Ghana to improve access. Quality assurance teams are inspecting these centers to ensure readiness for the December rollout. Facilities in both urban and rural areas will be included to reduce travel burdens for patients.
Dr. Aboagye also revealed that the government is integrating dialysis units into the Agenda 111 hospital project to enhance equitable access in underserved regions. “We want to ensure patients no longer need to travel long distances to receive care,” he said.
Equipment and Support
Addressing concerns about equipment shortages, Dr. Aboagye noted that 45 new dialysis machines, including consumables, have been procured through partnerships with the Ministry of Health and the World Bank. Training programs for nephrologists, nurses, and technicians are also underway to support the initiative.
Funding and Sustainability
The NHIA has secured funding for the program, estimated to cost between GHC 20 million and GHC 57 million annually, depending on patient numbers. Dr. Aboagye assured the public of the program’s sustainability, emphasizing the compassionate nature of this intervention.
“This initiative is about saving lives and ensuring no Ghanaian is denied access to life-saving dialysis due to financial barriers,” he affirmed.
The NHIA will publish a list of participating facilities by November 29. Patients are encouraged to verify their eligibility and access services through NHIA-registered centers. The NHIA staff will also be stationed at facilities to assist with registration and ensure compliance with the free treatment directive.
This landmark program marks a significant step towards achieving equitable healthcare in Ghana and addressing the growing burden of kidney disease.
