Dialysis crisis: KATH enhances kidney care with 3 new dialysis machines

Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) in Kumasi has cemented its position as a leader in kidney disease management and treatment with the installation of three state-of-the-art dialysis machines, now fully operational.

An additional 12 machines are slated for installation by the end of May 2024, aiming to bolster the hospital's capacity.

Professor Otchere Addai-Mensah, the hospital's Chief Executive Officer, unveiled plans to prioritize pediatric renal care, ensuring children with kidney issues have access to vital dialysis treatment within the facility.

"Usually, we do not have dialysis for children, and it is one area we are looking at...to give children the opportunity to live irrespective of their end stages of renal failure," Prof. Addai-Mensah stated.

He acknowledged the support of benevolent organizations in procuring dialysis machines, emphasizing their significance in enhancing hospital operations and supporting patients with failing kidneys.

Efficient dialysis services at KATH are expected to ease the burden on Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital and alleviate treatment costs for patients, the professor noted, while calling for increased support from corporate entities, individuals, and civil society organizations to advance clinical care delivery.

In addition to kidney care improvements, Prof. Addai-Mensah highlighted progress in the ongoing project with repairs underway to address leaking roofs.

"Typically, two weeks after rains, you will still see drippings...but that is not what is going on now," he remarked, commending the efforts of Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, in spearheading initiatives to enhance healthcare delivery nationwide.