Health professionals at the Upper East Regional Hospital say demand for dialysis services is increasing as more patients are diagnosed with kidney disease in the region.
Speaking during a World Kidney Day interview on Dreamz FM, physician specialist Dr. Emmanuel Anafo said the hospital’s dialysis center has treated more than 150 patients since its establishment.
However, he said the facility is facing challenges due to limited equipment and medical staff.
“We are overwhelmed with the schedule because the machines are not enough, and we also do not have enough doctors and nurses to run the place as efficiently as it should,” Anafo said.
Until recently, patients in the Upper East Region had to travel to cities such as Tamale, Kumasi or Accra to receive dialysis treatment.
The establishment of a dialysis center in Bolgatanga has improved access to care, but the growing number of cases continues to strain available resources.
Anafo said kidney disease treatment is expensive, making it difficult for many patients to afford long-term care.
He noted that the government has introduced measures to support dialysis patients by covering eight dialysis sessions per month.
However, patients requiring more frequent treatment must pay for additional sessions themselves.
“Dialysis is expensive, and beyond the cost of treatment, there are other challenges such as transportation and lifestyle adjustments,” Anafo said.
Patients undergoing dialysis must also limit fluid intake and make significant changes to their diet and daily routines.
Because of these challenges, health professionals say prevention remains the most effective strategy in reducing the burden of kidney disease.
“We should focus more on preventive measures,” Anafo said, encouraging people to adopt healthier lifestyles and undergo regular medical screening.
