On Thursday, November 9, 2023, Parliament is expecting the Health Minister, Kwaku Agyeman-Manu, to clarify the reasons behind the shutdown of the Renal Unit at Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital. He will also discuss the government’s steps to tackle the issues that led to its closure and the rise in kidney disease cases.
Juaboso’s MP, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, initiated the call to summon the minister. He expressed concern over the continued suspension of the outpatient department and the alarming statement from the Renal Patients Association. They reported that since the renal unit closed its outpatient department in May, over 19 of its members have passed away.
“Akandoh also requested the minister to tackle the pending issue of the GH¢380 fee for kidney therapy, which hasn’t been reinstated since the outpatient department closed.
Andrew Amoako Asiamah, Parliament’s Second Deputy Speaker, endorsed Akandoh’s statement and after a unanimous agreement among MPs, ordered the minister to appear before the House.
Asiamah said, “We look forward to the Health Minister’s appearance on Thursday, November 9, for him to enlighten us about the shutdown of the Renal Unit outpatient department and the surge in kidney-related ailments in Ghana. He’s also expected to inform us about the status of the NHIS issue concerning kidney treatment.
