In a bold move aimed at addressing the concerns of affected patients, the Minority in Parliament is demanding that the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital in Accra, Ghana, immediately refund the excess illegal fees it imposed on dialysis patients at the Renal Unit’s outpatient department.
This was stated in a press release signed by the Ranking Member of the Parliamentary Select Committee on Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh.
This demand follows the hospital’s acknowledgment that the fee adjustments were made prematurely and without the necessary procedures.
“The Minority’s demand for the refund of illegal dialysis fees is a stand for justice and fairness for patients who have been burdened by unauthorized price hikes,” said Kwabena Mintah Akandoh.
The hospital, a respected healthcare institution in Ghana, has been urged to take immediate steps to rectify the situation by either providing cash refunds to the affected patients or offering them additional dialysis services to compensate for the price difference between the original and adjusted fees.
“The hospital’s acknowledgment of its mistake is a step in the right direction, but we expect swift action in rectifying this situation to alleviate the financial strain on affected patients,” emphasized Akandoh.
In addition to addressing the immediate concerns, the Minority emphasizes the need for comprehensive institutional reforms within the hospital to prevent similar issues in the future.
“We believe that transparent and accountable financial practices within the hospital are essential not only for patient trust but also for ensuring efficient healthcare delivery,” added Akandoh.
Furthermore, the Minority has called on the government to expedite the automation of the exemptions regime for the procurement of health consumables and equipment.
“The current system is outdated and cumbersome. It’s high time we modernize our procedures to better serve the healthcare needs of our citizens,” urged Akandoh.
In closing, the Minority has urged the government to work diligently toward ensuring the equitable distribution of health resources and equipment, particularly dialysis machines, across the country.
