Free dialysis policy: We are waiting for an official letter from the Health Ministry – KATH Management

The management of Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital says it is waiting for an official letter from the Ministry of Health to implement the free dialysis policy.

Though the National Health Insurance Authority has announced free sessions for patients below 18 and above 60 years, effective June 1, they’re still paying the full cost when 3News visited the hospital on Thursday, June 6.

The announcement came as a relief for dialysis patients, considering the huge cost involved in receiving the service.

At Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, one had to pay GHC 595 per session, so absorbing or even subsidizing the cost is good news.

But the delay in absorbing the cost as promised by the government for persons below 18 and above 60 as well as subsidizing it for persons within the age bracket of 19 and 59 has left many patients disappointed.

Management says it is ready to offer the free services but only after receiving an official letter.

Meanwhile, the hospital has increased its dialysis machines from two to seven and is expecting more in the next few weeks.

Management of KATH has, however, indicated that it may reimburse patients if the expected official letter states that the policy takes effect on June 1.