Bawumia announces free kidney dialysis for all patients with National Health Insurance

0 Darko D. David November 11, 2024

Vice President of the Republic of Ghana, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has announced that kidney dialysis will be provided free of charge for all patients under National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).

This follows a pilot programme that offered free kidney dialysis for patients aged 60 and above and people under 18 years.

The Vice President and presidential candidate for the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) made the announcement while campaigning in the Old Tafo constituency in Ashanti region on Sunday, November 10, as reported by Daily Guide.

According to him, the success of the pilot programme is what has necessitate to the free kidney dialysis policy by the government. "Six months ago, we initiated a pilot programme to include dialysis under the National Health Insurance Scheme. For the past six months, individuals over 60 and those under 18 have been receiving free dialysis" Dr. Bawumia said.

A Patient on dialysis

This policy is set to begin from December 1, 2024 according to the vice president. He said the government was still transitioning from the pilot programme to full coverage

News article on YEN.com.gh as cited by Explore 3D-Notes states that the cost of dialysis for patients aged 60 and above and under 18 (who are considered the most vulnerable) according to the government, is projected to be GH¢ 329,952 per month.

By December, the cumulative cost is projected to be approximately GH¢2.3 million. This makes the introduction of free dialysis under NHIS an ideal policy since it will reduce the financial burden on patients and their families.

It will as well increase accessibility to life-saving treatment, and also improve health outcomes for kidney disease patients.