A state of the art kidney dialysis centre valued at GH₵5.8 million was commissioned at the Tetteh Quarshie Memorial Hospital in Mampong last Friday. The facility, a collaborative effort between the Sustainable Health Education and Interventions (SHEILD), corporate giants, and individual sponsors, aims to transform end-stage renal failure management in the Eastern Region and beyond.
Addressing a Growing Concern
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects over 300,000 Ghanaians, with only 400 dialysis machines available across nine of the country’s 16 regions. The new centre, equipped with four advanced dialysis units, promises to ease the burden on patients who previously had to travel long distances for treatment.
A Lifeline for Patients
The centre’s commissioning was celebrated in a vibrant ceremony attended by dignitaries, including Speaker of Parliament Rt. Hon. Alban Bagbin. In his address, Bagbin emphasized the universal right to health, stating, “The enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of health is one of the fundamental rights of every human being without distinction of race, religion, political belief, economic or social condition.”
Sustainable Financing and Support
Health Minister Hon. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh hailed the initiative as a critical step toward addressing the CKD crisis. He emphasized the need for sustainable financing mechanisms to support such interventions and pledged the Ministry’s unwavering support.
A Game Changer for Kidney Care
The Member of Parliament for Akuapem North, Hon. Samuel Awuku, described the centre as a “game-changer” for kidney care in the region. Mr. Godfried Nyante, Chairman of SHEILD, highlighted the power of collaboration in achieving the milestone.
About Tetteh Quarshie Memorial Hospital
The hospital, established in 1961, serves as a referral centre for several districts in the Eastern Region. With a 150-bed capacity, the hospital has long been a cornerstone of healthcare in the region.
About SHEILD
SHEILD is a Ghana based non profit dedicated to reducing healthcare inequalities. Through partnerships with stakeholders, the organisation continues to deliver innovative solutions to Ghana’s most pressing health challenges.
The new dialysis centre is a significant step towards improving healthcare access and outcomes for patients with CKD in Ghana.
