The Korle Bu Teaching Hospital has commissioned a new 15-bed Satellite Renal Dialysis Centre located near the Dean’s Guest House in Korle Bu.

The Board Chairman of the Hospital, Dr David Nkansa-Dwamena, has disclosed that there were discussions with the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) to explore ways of getting coverage for some of the costs associated with renal dialysis.

He noted that the cost of dialysis at the moment was high and could not be afforded by some patients. He said this was the reason why engagements had been initiated with the NHIA to provide insurance coverage for some renal services.

The Board Chairman expressed delight at the completion of the project and urged management to prioritise the maintenance of the machines. Dr. Nkansa-Dwamena stated further that the addition of a maintenance contract to the overall package was commendable and should be replicated in all other contracts.

The CEO of the Hospital, Dr Opoku Ware Ampomah, commended the late Prof. Kwame Afram, Prof. Michael Matekole, Dr Dwomoa Adu and Dr Charlotte Osafo for the pioneering roles they played in the training of several cadres of health professionals and leading the expansion of renal services in the Hospital.

He said that the contract involved the provision of additional dialysis machines to retool the main dialysis centre at the Medical Block.

Dr. Ampomah said that the retention of trained staff was of utmost importance and further indicated that the hospital was taking the necessary steps to improve the conditions of service for staff.

The Head of the Nephrology Unit, Dr. Vincent Boima, urged the government and key stakeholders to follow the examples of other African countries in making dialysis treatment affordable for patients.

He stated for example that in Kenya, the state provides two sessions of dialysis per week for renal patients who require the service.

The new 15 dialysis machines are top of the range and are expected to enhance care delivery to patients at the Renal Dialysis Unit.