Renal Patients Association of Ghana has issued a warning about the potential consequences for patients if the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital (KBTH) proceeds with a planned increase in dialysis fees.
This concern arises as reports indicate that the hospital’s renal unit is facing a new debt of GH₵2 million, just three months after the government settled a previous debt of GH₵4 million.
Dr. Owusu Sekyere, the Director of Medical Affairs at KBTH, revealed that the current cost of dialysis exceeds GH₵720 per session, while patients currently contribute only GH₵380.
This significant difference in costs presents a major financial burden for patients, as emphasized by Baffour Kojo Ahenkorah, President of the Renal Patients Association. Ahenkorah highlighted the financial strain already experienced by association members who struggle to afford the current dialysis fees.
During an interview with Selorm Adonoo on Eyewitness News, Ahenkorah expressed deep concern, stating that any increase in prices would have devastating consequences for patients.
While acknowledging the financial challenges faced by the hospital, Mr. Ahenkorah urged the government to intervene urgently and find a solution.
“We knew this would come one day even though it has come a bit early because they wanted to charge GH767.42 and they were pushed to cut it down to GH¢380. So definitely, there was going to be underrecovery there. But this is the reality on the ground. The consumables are more expensive. But here we are; we all know the economy that we are in. Even for the 380, we can’t pay. The government has to come in.”
“People are going to die again. People are going to die again on this thing…So we will just plead with the government to do something.”