Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia has announced that starting December 1, 2024, government will provide free dialysis treatment for all kidney patients covered by the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).

Speaking at a stakeholder meeting in the Old Tafo Pankrono Constituency, Dr. Bawumia emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting patients in need through the NHIS. The new free dialysis policy follows a successful pilot program launched earlier this year for patients over 60 and under 18 years of age.

“The NHIS was collapsing. We have revived it with a huge investment. Childhood cancer and sickle cell have now been included,” Dr. Bawumia stated.

He continued, “Also, kidney dialysis has become expensive and a lot of patients are unable to pay for the treatment. Six months ago, we started the pilot program for patients above 60 and those below 18. We are finally bringing the piloting to an end.”

“From December 1, all patients will receive free treatment under the NHIS,” he confirmed.

Under the new policy, registered kidney patients under the NHIS will be entitled to free dialysis treatment, a measure aimed at easing the financial burden on patients and their families, who often struggle to afford the costly procedure.

“Dialysis has become expensive, and this new policy will help reduce the burden on families,” he added.

The Vice President is currently on a 15-day tour of the Ashanti Region, rallying support ahead of the December 7 presidential and parliamentary elections.