Manitoba Renal Program was on hand to celebrate the opening of Hodgson Area Renal Health Centre April 5. The six-station centre attached to Percy E. Moore Hospital will provide life-saving dialysis for area residents who previously would have to travel to Ashern or Winnipeg for treatment. The opening of the unit also means space opening up in the Ashern and Winnipeg dialysis units which are operating at or near full capacity.
Dr. James Zacharius, medical director of the Local Centres Dialysis Program with the Manitoba Renal Program, spoke at the centre’s grand opening event. “This change would eliminate several hours of travel each week and allow patients more time at home and with their families. Overall this can mean an increased quality of life for our patients.”
Also speaking at the event was Aboriginal and Northern Affairs Minister, Eric Robinson. ”Education will also be a priority,” he said. “The facility will deliver programs focusing on the prevention and early detection of renal disease, which is a key to reducing the burden of chronic kidney disease.”
The renal health centre will service the communities of Fisher River Cree Nation, Peguis First Nation, Kinonjeoshtegon (Jackhead) First Nation and the Rural Municipality of Fisher. Development was guided by a collaborative committee of community representatives, the Province, Interlake Regional Health Committee and Manitoba Renal Program. Loud Eagle Drum Group sang a song to celebrate the opening.
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