Asabea, a 31-year-old kidney patient, has faced severe health complications due to the recent shutdown of the renal unit at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital. The unit, which closed for three weeks, has left her unable to undergo the necessary dialysis treatments, causing significant abdominal swelling. “I haven’t passed urine since November 21, 2021, the day I was diagnosed,” Asabea said, speaking after the unit’s reopening.
The closure of the unit had a profound impact on her well-being, as she depends on regular dialysis sessions to manage her condition. Gladys Ahiakpor, 42, another kidney patient, is also struggling with the consequences of the facility’s closure. Without access to frequent dialysis, Ahiakpor exhibits signs of worsening health, including swollen feet and yellowish eyes.
“I don’t have money for dialysis even though Korle Bu is relatively affordable. I can stay home for a week without dialysis, and blood starts coming out of my nose,” she lamented, expressing her sense of hopelessness. The closure has also led to some patients developing sores on their legs, exacerbating their conditions.
Baffour Ahenkorah, President of the Kidney Patients Association, voiced concerns about the long-term viability of the unit’s reopening. “We are afraid this might not be sustained for long,” Ahenkorah said. Mustapha Salifu, the Public Relations Officer for Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, explained that the unit’s operation had been delayed since June because crucial consumables had been stuck at the port due to incorrect shipping documents.
Dr. Opoku Ware Ampomah, the hospital’s CEO, assured that plans are underway to address the issue. “There was a problem with the vendor.
We have a proactive new representative from South Africa who has been assured that 30 dialysis machines owed us since 2017 will be delivered soon. Additionally, the Minister of Health has promised another 30 machines, which is expected before the end of the year. We hope these measures will help manage the situation effectively,” Dr Ampomah stated.
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