NHIA to expand free dialysis programme nationwide

The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has announced plans to expand its free dialysis programme to provide greater access to life-saving treatment for renal patients across the country.

As part of the initiative, the NHIA will procure additional dialysis machines and essential consumables for healthcare facilities nationwide.

The expansion is in line with the government’s broader strategy to improve access to critical healthcare services.

Chief Executive Officer of the NHIA, Dr. Victor Bampoe, explained that the programme aims to include more patients suffering from kidney conditions under the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).

“The previous government started the free dialysis, and there are 20 centres where the service is offered free of charge. What is needed is to expand it to make it more sustained in terms of funding,” he said.

“So that instead of the exercise depending on some funds, it will become like any other disease under the NHIS,” Dr. Bampoe added.

The move is expected to ease the financial burden on patients and their families, many of whom struggle with the high cost of dialysis treatment in Ghana

In another development, the Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has disclosed that the government will require approximately $25 million to procure all necessary vaccines for the country this year.

Mr. Akandoh expressed concern over the gradual withdrawal of donor support in Ghana’s health sector, describing the trend as troubling.

This development follows funding cuts to USAID by former U.S. President Donald Trump—cuts that have significantly affected the supply of essential drugs and financial support to Ghana’s healthcare system.

Speaking at a meeting with the Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana, Mr. Akandoh said the government is left with no alternative due to the dwindling aid.

“It is instructive to note that at this point in time, our partners who assist us in procuring most of our vaccines are gradually fading. This year alone, we need not less than $25 million to import vaccines into this country,” he stated.