Presidential Advisor on Health, Dr Anthony Nsiah-Asare, has shed light on the government’s upcoming free dialysis initiative under the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), effective December 1, 2024.

This policy, announced by Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, aims to alleviate the financial pressures on kidney patients across Ghana who depend on dialysis for survival.

In an interview on Joy News’ PM Express, Dr Nsiah-Asare, emphasised government’s commitment to supporting these vulnerable individuals, stressing that free access to dialysis is an essential step in addressing the broader issue of chronic kidney disease in Ghana.

Dr Nsiah-Asare, who also chairs the NHIS committee that reviewed dialysis needs nationwide, highlighted the extensive assessment conducted in the country’s main dialysis centres.

“In June this year, we set up a committee under the National Health Insurance Authority to examine the number of people on dialysis and the overall burden of chronic renal failure across Ghana,” he stated.

“Dialysis is a costly, ongoing treatment that serves as a stop-gap measure for chronic renal failure patients.”

Dr Nsiah-Asare explained that the committee’s review focused on patients in key hospitals, such as Korle-Bu, Komfo Anokye, Efia Nkwanta, and Cape Coast Teaching Hospitals.

While acknowledging that some patients seek treatment at private facilities like the Bank Hospital and EGMC, he stated that the free dialysis initiative under NHIS would particularly target Ghana’s most vulnerable groups.

“We looked closely at the needs of vulnerable groups, including children under 18 and adults over 60, initially providing two sessions per month under NHIS social corporate responsibility funds. But now, we’re expanding to cover all sessions and all age groups from December,” he shared.

According to Dr Nsiah-Asare, the government has recognized the impact of dialysis expenses on families and is determined to support patients by fully covering their treatment through NHIS.

“Once health insurance says they’re covering it, they’re covering it completely. Health insurance will ensure that all dialysis patients, regardless of age, have access to free treatment starting December 1,” he stated.

Dr. Nsiah-Asare also underscored the importance of preventive health measures in reducing the incidence of kidney disease.

“One of the most critical elements in addressing chronic diseases like kidney failure is prevention and early detection.

"We’ve introduced an annual free medical check-up under NHIS, which I call the ‘adult way.’ Even those who feel healthy should undergo these check-ups to catch issues early,” he advised.

While discussing the treatment costs, Dr Nsiah-Asare indicated that, typically, patients undergo between two to four dialysis sessions per month, depending on their condition, with each session costing between ¢400 and ¢800.

“Some patients need three sessions weekly, while others may need four. Insurance will cover them fully until they are eligible for further treatment options like transplants,” he explained.

Addressing the broader policy perspective, Dr Nsiah-Asare stated that government has outlined a holistic approach to managing chronic diseases, including chronic kidney failure, in its policy manifesto.

“Our policy is clear: we’re committed to providing equitable, accessible healthcare to all Ghanaians, and this dialysis initiative is just one component of that vision,” he concluded.