In Ghana, access to dialysis services remains a critical concern, with only 14 registered dialysis centers currently in operation. The Health Facilities Regulatory Agency (HeFRA) has reported that these facilities are divided equally between public and private ownership.
- Greater Accra Region: Eight of these facilities are situated in the Greater Accra Region, making it the hub of dialysis services in the country.
- Ashanti Region: Three centers are located in the Ashanti Region.
- Northern Region: The Northern Region has one dialysis center.
- Eastern Region: The Eastern Region is home to another dialysis facility.
- Western Region: The Western Region also boasts a dialysis center.
Dialysis plays a crucial role in aiding individuals whose kidneys are unable to effectively remove excess fluid and waste products from their bloodstream. For these patients, receiving dialysis treatment three times a week is essential for maintaining a normal and healthy life.
Ms. Christabel Nuhoho, the Head of Public Relations at HeFRA, explained that the mentioned facilities are the ones officially licensed by HeFRA to offer dialysis services. However, it’s worth noting that there may be other registered centers awaiting licensing or operating under the radar.
Ghana faces a significant gap in meeting the dialysis needs of its population, with approximately 15,400 patients requiring dialysis treatment. Astonishingly, only 1,195 individuals, constituting a mere 7.8% of the estimated number, currently have access to this life-saving treatment.
Despite the high prevalence of End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) or kidney failure in the country, there is a scarcity of Nephrologists in Ghana. These specialized doctors are crucial in diagnosing and treating kidney conditions. Currently, only 10 Nephrologists serve the entire nation, highlighting the urgent need for more medical professionals in this field.
Ms. Nuhoho emphasized that facilities seeking a license to operate dialysis services must meet specific criteria. These include a minimum of two dialysis machines, two dialysis beds, a water treatment plant, a BP apparatus per machine, and an emergency trolley stocked with essential medications.
In conclusion, the limited availability of dialysis centers in Ghana presents a significant challenge in meeting the growing demand for life-saving dialysis treatment. Addressing this issue calls for both increased licensing of qualified facilities and the training and recruitment of more Nephrologists to serve the nation’s healthcare needs.
