Manitoba Renal Program launched its newest dialysis unit at Seven Oaks General Hospital on March 12, a day before World Kidney Day. The eight-station unit cost $3 million and can accommodate up to 48 additional patients a year.
Health Minister Erin Selby was on hand for the event. “This new renal health dialysis unit will ensure more patients with kidney disease received the quality care they need quickly,” said Minister Selby.
Patient Hank Horner was also on hand for the event. Horner has been dialyzing at the hospital for several years. “The dialysis staff at Seven Oaks has helped me get back to living my life,” he said, talking about how much he appreciates the team atmosphere. Horner also joked that patients will be able to get a suntan during their treatment, in the bright new space which features several large windows.
MRP Medical Director Dr. Mauro Verrelli stressed that while there is an ongoing need for dialysis expansion due to the growing numbers of Manitobans with chronic kidney disease, the ultimate goal is to prevent kidney disease or slow the progression through early diagnosis and treatment.
In 2012 Manitoba led the country with the highest amount of new dialysis patients.
MRP would like to thank all the staff and partners who worked hard in planning and implementing this unit which is the third dialysis unit to be housed at Seven Oaks.