The Forum for Kidney Patients Association Ghana has urgently appealed for more dialysis machines at the Cape Coast Teaching Hospital (CCTH). This critical request addresses the severe strain on the hospital, which operates as the Central Region's only public dialysis center. Currently, only five machines serve over 100 patients, leading to significantly reduced treatment times.
Patients at CCTH receive only about two hours of dialysis per session. This falls short of the recommended four hours, increasing their risk of complications. The hospital serves a wide area, including patients from the Western, Eastern, and Ashanti Regions, intensifying the demand on its limited resources. The shortage of machines and consumables poses a serious threat to patient health and well-being.
This situation highlights a broader challenge within Ghana's healthcare infrastructure. The rising incidence of kidney diseases places immense pressure on existing facilities. While the government plans to establish more dialysis centers, the immediate need at CCTH remains critical. The current capacity issues reflect a national demand for improved renal care services and better resource allocation in public health.
Baffour Kojo Ahinkra, President of the Forum for Kidney Patients Association, emphasized the urgency of the situation. He stated that patients receiving only two hours of dialysis show signs of inadequate blood filtration, such as the smell of urea on their breath. The Association recently donated disposable bloodlines and dialysis powder to help restore two non-functional machines at CCTH. This gesture aims to complement government efforts and mitigate immediate pressures.
Dr. Samuel Doughan, a physician specialist at CCTH, confirmed the immense pressure on the facility and staff. He noted that the constant use of machines due to increased patient burden leads to frequent breakdowns and consumable shortages. Dr. Doughan reiterated the appeal for more dialysis machines to meet the growing demand and ensure adequate treatment for all patients. He also advised citizens to undergo regular check-ups and manage conditions like hypertension and diabetes to reduce renal cases.
The implications of this shortage are severe for patients. Madam Gifty Tetteh, a patient from Akim Oda in the Eastern Region, travels four hours for her sessions. Her experience underscores the need for more regional dialysis centers and increased capacity at CCTH. Without immediate intervention, the health outcomes for many kidney patients in Ghana will continue to be compromised. Decision-makers must prioritize investment in renal care infrastructure and ensure timely access to life-saving treatments.