The Korle Bu Teaching Hospital (KBTH) in Accra is urging Parliament and relevant agencies to expedite the passage of legislation concerning tissue donation, organ harvesting, and storage. This move, they believe, could be life-saving for thousands of Ghanaians in dire health situations.
Dr. David Nkansa-Dwamena, Board Chairman of KBTH, addressed this need during the hospital’s centenary celebration. He underscored the growing concerns over the escalating cost of treatments, especially for kidney diseases. To address these challenges, he revealed that the board supports efforts to secure Ghana’s legislative framework for transplantation services. The aim is to eliminate the need for Ghanaians to seek medical treatments abroad.
According to a report by Graphic Online, Nkansa-Dwamena also highlighted that the hospital has introduced kidney transplant services spearheaded by a local team of specialists. The proposed law would further bolster these efforts.
KBTH rolled out the “Adopt a Ward Initiative” campaign as part of its centenary. This seeks partnerships with corporate entities, philanthropists, and individuals to enhance and maintain its facilities, aiming for universal health coverage in Ghana.
The Board Chairman emphasised the need for continued support from corporate Ghana and philanthropists, noting that many have already pledged their commitment.
KBTH’s commitment to service expansion and infrastructure renovation remains unwavering. To this end, Nkansa-Dwamena made a plea for further assistance to meet the hospital’s goals.
Centenary Celebration Highlights
The year-long celebration, themed “100 ways to celebrate 100 years,” will feature an array of activities. Dr. Opoku Ware Ampomah, CEO of KBTH, shared plans to unveil infrastructure master plans, introduce new elevators, construct water farms, and rename wards in honour of key personalities. He recognised the hospital’s journey through several transformative phases, stressing its importance in healthcare delivery with a daily intake of around 2,000 patients.
The Government’s Role in Healthcare Evolution
Tina Mensah, Deputy Minister of Health, lauded KBTH’s pivotal role in the evolution of various health professions in Ghana. She cited the hospital’s broad reach, serving not just Ghanaians but patients from West African nations. Mensah assured the government’s commitment to enhancing KBTH’s infrastructure. She highlighted recent projects, including the Fevers Unit, the Infectious Disease Centre, and the upcoming 400-bed Women’s Hospital.
In sum, both the hospital and the government recognise the imperative to provide advanced healthcare, ensuring KBTH’s continued legacy as a leader in the region.
