The Chief Executive Officer of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), Dr Dacosta Aboagye, has assured kidney patients that the necessary funding will be provided to ensure the smooth delivery of free dialysis treatment.
In an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen show, Dr Aboagye said Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia and his advisors are well-equipped to handle the initiative.
He further explained that the comprehensive plan to support kidney patients will strengthen the NHIS, noting that the country’s health system is on an upward trajectory.
“Bawumia and his advisors know exactly what they are doing. We are on the best path for our health system. Those who have benefited from this initiative have not faced any challenges” he said.
The new policy will see kidney patients under the NHIS receiving free dialysis treatment starting December 1, 2024.
This follows a successful six-month pilot program, which offered free dialysis for patients under 18 and over 60 years of age.
Dr Aboagye also mentioned that the scheme aims to alleviate the financial burden of dialysis, which is often a significant challenge for many patients.
“We have done a pilot and have identified the list of patients who will benefit from this initiative.”
To ensure fairness and avoid overwhelming any one hospital, Dr. Aboagye added, “We will not crowd Korle-Bu; we will distribute patients to other hospitals as well.”
He noted that the financing for the program had evolved since the pilot phase, and the resources now available would ensure the program’s success.
Dr. Aboagye also said the NHIA will continue monitoring the program’s implementation.
“If any patients require more assistance, we will review their cases to ensure they get the care they need,” he said.
This initiative is expected to bring relief to many, reducing the financial strain on kidney patients while improving access to life-saving treatments under the NHIS.
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