KATH introduces ‘revolutionary’ GH¢15,000-per-patient treatment that ‘cures’ stroke
Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) has introduced a ‘revolutionary’ GH¢15,000-per-patient treatment that ‘cures’ stroke.
For the past forty (40) years, the annual admission of stroke patients at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) stood at about 200. However, that number has now risen to over a thousand.
This rise in stroke cases has made cardiovascular disease the predominant illness treated at the facility. Consequently, a time-bound treatment has been introduced to tackle the problem head-on by dissolving blood clots that obstruct the brain’s blood flow.
The newly implemented treatment, known as active stroke thrombolysis, actively administers drugs and medication to dissolve blood clots in the brain during an acute ischemic stroke.
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During the launch of the thrombolysis services, Dr. Fred Stephen Sarfo, a Consultant Neurologist at KATH, explained the treatment’s objective- to dissolve the clot and restore blood flow to the brain. This groundbreaking approach allows patients to regain their ability to speak and ultimately cures the stroke, representing a significant departure from the past when a proper cure was lacking.
Dr. Sarfo expressed his belief in the revolutionary impact of this treatment, heralding a transformation in stroke treatment practices.
At the launch event, Prof. Dr. Otchere Addai-Mensah, the CEO of KATH, announced that the hospital’s new strategy focuses on optimizing tertiary healthcare through innovation and research. As part of this strategy, the management has extended support to the KATH Multidisciplinary Stroke Thrombolysis Team, enabling them to deliver this specialized service promptly. The aim is to prevent stroke patients from experiencing the devastating consequences of the disease.
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Prof. Dr. Addai-Mensah urged all stakeholders, especially peripheral hospitals and the general public, to act swiftly by admitting stroke patients to KATH for this life-changing service.
The Deputy Regional Director of Clinic Care at Ghana Health Service, Rita Larsen-Reindolf also joined the launch. She championed the idea that awareness and support from stakeholders are indispensable. She affirmed the readiness of the health service to embrace the challenge and back KATH’s new initiative.
Larsen-Reindolf emphasized the immediate need for awareness campaigns and extensive public education to maximize the benefits of the new treatment.
SOURCE: Coverghana.com.gh
