Professor Titus Kofi Beyuo has urged the government to prioritize making dialysis treatment free for all Ghanaians, citing its economic and social importance in combating renal diseases.
In an interview monitored by Newsnetgh, the Lambussie MP called for a comprehensive approach to address kidney-related illnesses.
“Dialysis should be free, and the government must invest in prevention to reduce the number of people reaching end-stage kidney failure,” he emphasized.
He criticized past attempts to offer free dialysis, describing them as political gimmicks that excluded many patients.
“The pilot program targeted a narrow age group, leaving out the majority in need. This approach was unfair and unsustainable,” he argued.
Professor Beyuo stressed that free dialysis would compel the government to prioritize preventive measures like research, public education, and healthy lifestyle campaigns, which could reduce the prevalence of kidney diseases.
He also called for greater investment in kidney transplants, highlighting them as a more cost-effective, long-term solution.
“Transplant patients contribute to the economy, while dialysis patients face significant limitations,” he noted.
To fund these initiatives, he proposed uncapping the National Health Insurance Levy (NHIL) to ensure adequate resources.
“Every Ghanaian contributes to NHIS through taxes, and these funds must be used judiciously to support life-saving programs like free dialysis,” he stated.
Professor Beyuo expressed confidence that with strong leadership and well-crafted policies, Ghana’s healthcare system could deliver equitable access to essential treatments for all citizens.