John Dramani Mahama Calls For The Expulsion Of Taxes On Medical Supplies Used For Dialysis Treatment

 

(Former President John Dramani Mahama)

Former President John Dramani Mahama has called for the immediate removal of taxes on medical supplies used for dialysis treatment in Ghana. This request comes after the recent announcement of a price increase for dialysis treatment at the Renal Dialysis Unit of the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, which was later reversed by hospital management.

The cost of the treatment had been raised from GH¢380 to GH¢765, but after public outcry and the revelation that Parliament had not approved the increase, the management clarified that it was only a proposal.

In response to the public discussion, Mr. Mahama criticized the government's decision to burden patients with high treatment costs during the current economic crisis. He made these remarks during his address at the first Ghana Aging Conference and commemoration of the International Day of Older Persons in Accra on October 1.

Mr. Mahama also promised that, if given the opportunity, his administration would establish a fund to support patients with expensive diseases such as diabetes and kidney diseases.

The former president emphasized that the increase in taxes and duties on materials for dialysis treatment was the main reason for the price hike. As an immediate solution, he called on the government to exempt medication and kits for dialysis treatment from taxes and duties to ensure that patients who rely on these treatments can access them without financial strain.

Mr. Mahama's call reflects concerns about the affordability and accessibility of healthcare services in Ghana, particularly for individuals with chronic illnesses. Removing taxes on dialysis treatment supplies could help reduce the financial burden on patients and ensure their continued access to life-saving treatments.