Vice President and Presidential Candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr Mahamudu Bawumia has announced free dialysis sessions for all kidney patients effective next month.
It follows a “pilot programme” six months ago under the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).
Speaking as part of his campaign tour at the Old Tafo constituency on Sunday, November 10, 2024, the Vice President said the implementation will start on December 1 2024.
“Many people suffer from kidney diseases, requiring dialysis, which can be costly and unaffordable for many. Six months ago, we initiated a pilot programme to include dialysis under the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).
“For the past six months, individuals over 60 and those under 18 have been receiving free dialysis. However, we are now concluding this pilot programme. Starting December 1 of this year, all kidney dialysis patients will be covered for free under the NHIS.”
In June, the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) announced that GHC4.4 million has been set aside to assist renal patients across the country in the remaining half of the year.
While all sessions were made free for those below 18 years and those above 60, patients aged 18 to 59 were given two free dialysis sessions under the scheme.
The news has come as a relief to renal patients who could not fund their dialysis on a timely basis; however, critics say this is a vote-buying ruse.
Source: opemsuo.com/Hajara Fuseini
