Dr. Nana Ayew Afriyie, the Chairman of the Health Committee in Parliament and MP for Effiduase Asokore, has emphasised that shutting down the renal unit at Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital is not a viable option.
In an interview on Eyewitness News, the lawmaker defended Korle-Bu against blame for the increased charges for dialysis treatment, citing the high operational costs.
He mentioned that the committee will convene a meeting involving Korle-Bu’s management, the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), and the Ministry of Health to discuss appropriate charges for dialysis treatment.
Dr. Nana Ayew Afriyie added that the hospital has been instructed not to impose the new fees.
He stated, “We don’t want the place to be shut down; in the latter case, I will go for mercy, we can’t shut down the place.”
The Renal Unit at Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital has been closed to outpatients since May 22, 2023, leading to patients seeking dialysis services elsewhere.
Dr. Nana Ayew Afriyie also expressed appreciation for First Sky’s support for kidney patients, emphasising that they have played a crucial role in subsidising healthcare for those who cannot afford it.
The Renal Patients Association has made an urgent plea for the reopening of Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital’s renal unit for outpatient services.
