The government of Ghana is set to cover the cost of dialysis treatment for kidney patients under the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), starting December 1, 2024. This initiative will ensure that all dialysis treatments, regardless of age, are provided free of charge, following the successful pilot program that already covers patients under 18 and over 60 years old.
Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the Presidential Candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), made the announcement during a stakeholder engagement in Suame, Ashanti Region. The event was part of his ongoing campaign tour focused on constituency outreach.
Dr. Bawumia explained that this new measure is part of the government's broader plan to permanently include dialysis treatment in the NHIS benefits package. He noted that the government has already invested significantly in improving the NHIS, allowing more treatments to be covered. For example, under the scheme, children with sickle cell disease can now access Hydroxyurea medication for free. Additionally, childhood cancers are now covered by NHIS.
The government’s decision to expand dialysis coverage comes after recognizing the high costs of treatment, which many patients struggle to afford. "Kidney dialysis is very expensive, and patients cannot afford it. We took the bold decision to cover the cost for patients under 18 and 60 years above. Now, we have decided to cover the dialysis cost for every kidney patient," Bawumia stated.
To further support this initiative, the government plans to procure new dialysis machines to ensure that patients have better access to treatment. Dr. Bawumia emphasized that these improvements are part of a comprehensive effort to enhance the healthcare system and make it more accessible to all Ghanaians.
During his visit to Suame, a key NPP stronghold, Dr. Bawumia engaged with traditional leaders, religious figures, and local opinion leaders, explaining how his policies would improve the lives of Ghanaians. With just under a month to go before the general elections, his visit aimed to rally support for the NPP and the party's parliamentary candidate for Suame.
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