Title: Kidney failure patients in Ghana face controversial hike in dialysis prices
Introduction :
The situation of kidney failure patients in Ghana has become even more worrying recently, with the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital in Accra announcing that dialysis rates will be increased significantly. This decision is controversial because it risks making care even more inaccessible for many patients. In this article, we will take a closer look at the reasons for this increase, the reactions of health authorities and the impact on patients.
Dialysis prices on the rise:
Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital recently announced plans to increase dialysis rates by 100%. This means that patients who previously paid 380 cedis (around 30 euros) per dialysis session could now spend up to 800 cedis (around 65 euros). This considerable increase was justified by the hospital by citing increased operational costs and the end of state subsidies. However, she was strongly criticized by the Ministry of Health, which described the decision as “illegal”.
The reaction of health authorities:
The Ministry of Health summoned the management of Korle-Bu University Hospital to explain this increase in dialysis prices. According to the authorities, the hospital had not informed the government of this decision and considers this increase to be in violation of the regulations in force. Additionally, the ministry points out that the high cost of dialysis treatments has been a point of concern during recent protests against the cost of living.
The impact on patients:
This increase in dialysis prices is a source of concern for many Ghanaian patients who are already struggling to pay the current prices. Dialysis is an essential treatment for people suffering from kidney failure and the high cost of these sessions has been a major barrier for many families. Some protesters even testified to the loss of a loved one’s life due to the inability to afford treatment costs. With this new increase in prices, the situation is likely to become even more difficult for many patients who will have difficulty accessing the care they need.
Conclusion :
Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital’s announcement regarding the increase in dialysis prices in Ghana has sparked a heated controversy. While the hospital justifies this decision by increasing operational costs and the absence of government subsidies, health authorities contest the legality of this increase. Patients suffering from kidney failure are particularly affected by this increase, as they may not be able to afford the treatment costs necessary for their survival. This situation raises questions about the accessibility of healthcare in Ghana and requires careful consideration to find solutions that allow patients to receive the treatment they need, without compromising their financial situation.