Dr. Opoku Ware Ampomah, the Chief Executive Officer of Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, has expressed concern about the significant increase in kidney-related ailments, revealing that 17% of the Ghanaian population is currently grappling with kidney issues.
Dr. Ampomah shared that their records indicate approximately 700 kidney patients in need of consistent dialysis treatment.
Speaking during an interview on Citi TV, he underscored the crucial importance of early diagnosis and lifestyle adjustments, stating that these measures could significantly prolong the lives of kidney patients.
“In our entire country, our latest registry shows that there were approximately 700 patients requiring regular renal dialysis across the nation. About 17% of our population is facing kidney problems, which is a substantial figure.
The average across the African continent is roughly 15%, but in Ghana, it’s approximately 17%. This means that 5 million of our population are dealing with some form of kidney challenge. However, with early diagnosis, most of them can manage through lifestyle modifications.
Early diagnosis is crucial, so screening is essential,” he emphasized.
Dr. Ampomah explained that kidneys are naturally designed with surplus capacity, allowing individuals to donate a kidney and still maintain good health.
He clarified that a person can lead a healthy life with just one kidney, or even a portion of it, stating, “If you are a healthy person, half of one kidney is sufficient to meet your needs.”
Regarding the adjustment in fees, he attributed it to fluctuations in the cedi exchange rate and inflation, which have eroded the costs of consumables, forcing the hospital to operate at a deficit.
“At present, the prices were set a few years ago, with GH¢380 being the most affordable option compared to other facilities. Due to exchange rate fluctuations and inflation, the value of this has diminished, so we are not covering our costs for providing the service. Therefore, it was necessary for us to revise the prices to break even.
This service is not for profit, but simply to cover our costs and sustain it,” clarified the CEO of Korle-Bu.
Regarding the failure to submit the proposal to Parliament for approval, he criticized departmental staff for prematurely releasing the new fees without proper authorization, stating, “Unfortunately, this time, the departmental level prematurely released the figures to the public without my knowledge.
It came as a surprise. We are still at GH¢380.”
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