By Alex Ababio
Starting December 1, 2024, the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) will provide free dialysis services at 20 accredited hospitals across Ghana. This initiative follows a successful six-month pilot phase and is designed to ease the financial burden on kidney patients and their families.
Under the programme, registered NHIS members will receive up to eight free dialysis sessions per month at participating facilities. Each session, which previously cost GH₵491, is now covered by the NHIS.
NHIA’s Vision for Accessible Healthcare
The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has expressed its dedication to ensuring the smooth implementation of this programme. “The NHIA is pleased to announce the official commencement of the national free dialysis programme today, December 1, 2024, in NHIA-credentialed facilities,” read a statement from the NHIA.
To support healthcare providers, the NHIA has released GH₵200 million for claims covering September and October 2024. Over the last two months, the Authority has committed GH₵1 billion to the healthcare sector.
Participating Hospitals
The following 20 hospitals across Ghana will provide free dialysis services:
– Ashanti Region: Hart Adventist Hospital, Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, FirstCare Hospital
– Bono Region: Holy Family Hospital, Berekum
– Central Region Cape Coast Teaching Hospital
– Eastern Region: Eastern Regional Hospital
– Greater Accra Region: Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, 37 Military Hospital, Newtown Islamic Hospital Ltd, Ghana Police Hospital, Trust Hospital Premium Centre, Ridge Regional Hospital, International Maritime Hospital
– Northern Region: Tamale Teaching Hospital
– Upper East Region: Regional Hospital, Bolgatanga
– Upper West Region: Upper West Regional Hospital
– Volta Region: Ho Teaching Hospital, Volta Regional Hospital, Hohoe
– Western Region Effia Nkwanta Regional Hospital, Takoradi Hospital
Collaborations and Equipment Procurement
The NHIA has worked closely with dialysis unit leaders, the Private Health Association, and the leadership of the Dialysis Patient Group to ensure a seamless rollout. Additionally, with support from the World Bank, the government has procured 45 dialysis machines, including seven already in use, 23 being cleared, and 15 on order.
“To enhance this initiative, the government, in partnership with the World Bank, has secured 45 dialysis machines nationwide… More of such facilities will be procured in the coming years to ensure continued service delivery to patients,” stated the NHIA.
The Cost and Reach of Free Dialysis
Approximately 1,200 kidney patients are expected to benefit from this programme annually, which will cost the NHIA an estimated GH₵57 million. Patients are urged to report any unauthorized charges for dialysis services, as participating facilities are required to provide the service free of charge.
LCommitment to Quality Healthcare
In a statement signed by NHIA Chief Executive Dr. Da-Costa Aboagye, the Authority reiterated its commitment to delivering quality healthcare:
“The NHIA remains committed to ensuring the availability of quality healthcare services for all Ghanaians, and we will continue to work collaboratively with all partners to build a sustainable and efficient healthcare system.”
A Step Forward for Kidney Patients
This programme is a significant step in strengthening Ghana’s healthcare infrastructure and providing critical support to kidney patients nationwide. It underscores the NHIA’s and government’s dedication to accessible and affordable healthcare for all citizens.