The decision to resume outpatient services at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital’s renal unit is set on November 7
This however has faced setbacks despite Health Minister Kwaku Agyemang-Manu’s directive for an immediate reopening, as conveyed by Isaac Baah Ofei, the Ministry of Health’s spokesperson.
As of Monday afternoon, a visit by Citi News’ Eno Safo unveiled that the unit remained closed to OPD services, casting uncertainty on the implementation of the Health Minister’s directive. Despite management’s brief assurance on Monday evening, the unit’s reopening is anticipated on Tuesday, November 7.
This comes after a partial reopening on September 27, accompanied by an announcement of a significant increase in dialysis treatment costs per session from GH¢380 to GHS¢765.42.
Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, the Minority’s spokesperson on health, has criticized the Health Minister for perceived failure in enforcing the reopening directive.
The unit has a troubled history since its closure in May 2023 due to a GH¢4 million debt, with 19 outpatients losing their lives during this period. Notably, the management has consistently failed to adhere to its proposed reopening timelines.
A recent agreement reached on November 3 to reopen the unit on November 6 has been reneged upon, adding further complexity to the challenges surrounding the operational status of the renal unit.
