The Renal Patients Association is calling on the government to consider eliminating taxes on consumables used in dialysis treatment across the country.

The association is concerned about the possibility of another closure of the outpatient department of the renal unit at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital due to high taxes on dialysis equipment.

The taxes are perceived as a deterrent to the importation of equipment necessary for the unit.

Baffour Kojo Ahenkorah, the President of the Renal Patients Association, emphasized the need for the government to review the tax component, particularly on consumables, which are deemed expensive.

He expressed concerns about private individuals being unable to absorb the substantial taxes and maintain the business.

This appeal comes in the wake of the government’s approval of GH¢4 million to address the outstanding debt of the renal unit at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital.