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Management of Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital has indicated that the price review proposed by its Renal Dialysis Unit is yet to be approved.
“Any proposed fee will be forwarded to Parliament through the Ministry of Health for approval,” a statement on Thursday, September 28 said.
“It is only after the due parliamentary approval that any revised fees will be implemented.”
There has been public backlash over the proposed increase in cost of dialysis from GH¢380 to GH¢765.42.
Reports were rife the decision was taken as a result of the removal of tax on reagents used in renal treatment.
But management conceded there are challenges confronting renal dialysis patients.
“We will continue, as we have done over the years, to collaborate with stakeholders and philanthropists to help subsidize dialysis reagents and services for the treatment of many patients.”
The statement lauded First Sky Group for providing “free dialysis services over the past eight (8) years, with more than 200 patients benefiting yearly; a gesture that has tremendously improved the survival rate and quality of life of our renal patients”.
It assured the public that the welfare of renal patients will be kept at the centre of any discussions as it welcomes support from public-spirited individuals.
The proposed price adjustment has been met with concern from some patients and their families. Renal dialysis is a life-saving treatment, but it can be very expensive. Some patients worry that they will be unable to afford treatment if the price increases.
The hospital has assured patients that the old price will be maintained until the price adjustment is approved by Parliament.
It is not yet clear when the price adjustment will be considered by Parliament.
