NHIA intensifies kidney care efforts, supports over 6,000 patients

The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has reinforced its commitment to tackling kidney disease in Ghana, revealing that over 6,000 patients have received support under the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).

This was disclosed at a public health forum held in Accra to mark World Kidney Month, where stakeholders highlighted the growing burden of kidney disease and the need for preventive action, early detection, and expanded access to treatment.

Medical experts at the forum emphasized that many kidney conditions are preventable and largely linked to lifestyle choices. Dr. Abigail Derkyi-Kwarteng, Director of Claims at NHIA, urged the public to adopt healthier habits, including increased water intake, reduced alcohol consumption, and the avoidance of unregulated herbal medicines. She also encouraged Ghanaians to take advantage of free primary healthcare services and prioritise regular medical check-ups.

In a personal account, Mr. Baffour Kwadwo Ahenkorah, Head of the Renal Patients Association of Ghana, highlighted the financial and logistical challenges associated with dialysis treatment, including the limited availability of machines. While expressing appreciation for NHIS support, he called for greater private sector involvement to improve access and reduce costs.

Providing further insight, Dr. Papa Nii Maale-Adsei, a Medical Practitioner explained that dialysis represents the end stage of kidney failure, noting that transplantation remains the only long-term solution. He stressed the importance of regular exercise and reduced consumption of processed foods in preventing kidney disease.

The forum, organised by the Marketing Unit of the Corporate Affairs Directorate of NHIA, also featured a podcast session hosted by Miss Shaniece Palm, which attracted strong public participation and engagement.

In her address, the Deputy Director of Marketing at NHIA, Ms. Angela Asiedu,Esq. underscored the importance of prevention in reducing the incidence of kidney disease. She urged participants to be mindful of their kidney health and adopt preventive lifestyles, noting that while NHIS continues to expand healthcare coverage, prevention remains the most effective safeguard.

Also speaking at the event, the Head of Communications at NHIA, Ms. Faustina Derry, encouraged regular health screenings and responsible lifestyle choices, stressing that early diagnosis is critical in preventing kidney-related complications.

The event also featured on-site health screenings to promote early detection and preventive care, as well as an interactive session where participants engaged experts on kidney health concerns.

The forum underscored the growing impact of kidney disease in Ghana and reaffirmed NHIA’s commitment to expanding access to affordable healthcare through sustained public education, preventive services, and treatment support.