The Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) in Kumasi is taking strides to become a frontrunner in the management and treatment of kidney diseases and renal failure.
In line with this objective, the hospital has recently deployed three state-of-the-art dialysis machines, now fully operational, with plans to add another 12 by the end of May 2024, enhancing its treatment capacity.
The hospital’s Chief Executive Officer, Professor Otchere Addai-Mensah, announced this initiative, emphasizing a particular focus on extending dialysis services to children with renal issues, an underserved demographic until now.
Addressing journalists in Kumasi, he highlighted the lack of previous provision for pediatric dialysis, stressing the hospital’s commitment to offering these life-saving treatments, regardless of the stage of renal failure.
Furthermore, Professor Addai-Mensah acknowledged the support of philanthropic organizations in procuring additional dialysis machines, which will not only enhance the hospital’s capabilities but also alleviate pressure on other healthcare facilities like the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital and reduce treatment costs for patients.
“Usually, we do not have dialysis for children, and it is one area we are looking at as a hospital – to give children the opportunity to live irrespective of their end stages of renal failure.”
He appealed for continued support from corporate entities, individuals, and civil society groups to bolster the hospital’s capacity to deliver advanced and efficient clinical care.
Regarding infrastructure improvements, he noted progress in the ongoing ‘Health KATH Project,’ particularly in repairing leaking roofs, a long-standing issue that is now being addressed, thanks in part to the leadership of the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, who championed the initiative to elevate healthcare services nationwide.
“Typically, two weeks after rains, you will still see drippings on the floors of D5, and the upper floors but that is not what is going on now”, he explained.