GOVERNMENT SUPPORTS IMPROVED DIALYSIS SERVICES

Saskatchewan Health is investing $685,000 to ensure dialysis patients in North Battleford and surrounding communities have access to vital dialysis treatment closer to home.

The money will go toward renovations at the Battlefords Union Hospital, staff training, a renal software program, and operating funds for 2003-2004. This will allow the region to establish a satellite service of six new renal stations that will operate three days per week.

"This investment to expand renal services reflects our Action Plan for Saskatchewan Health Care commitment to provide accessible, quality health care services to the people of our province, while ensuring our health system is sustainable into the future," Health Minister John Nilson said. "The new site will bring a significant improvement to the quality of life for dialysis patients in this part of the province who otherwise must travel to Saskatoon several times a week."

The service at Battlefords Union Hospital will accommodate a maximum of 12 patients per day. Once North Battleford's site is operational in the fall, 95 people will be served in the province's satellite locations, including existing sites in Lloydminster, Prince Albert, Tisdale, Yorkton, and Swift Current.

"Some dialysis patients make more than a hundred trips each year for treatment, many of them experiencing the stress of traveling long distances for care," Prairie North Regional Health Authority Chair Bonnie O'Grady said. "By offering treatment closer to home, we hope to reduce travel time, stress, and expenses and allow patients to lead a more normal lifestyle."

Dialysis removes waste from the blood by simulating natural kidney function. This prevents a build up of toxins that can be debilitating and ultimately fatal. There are currently 451 patients receiving in-hospital dialysis and 114 using home dialysis, for a total of 565 renal patients receiving care in Saskatchewan. Regina and Saskatoon renal centres provide care to the majority of renal patients in the province.

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For More Information, Contact:

Mark Rathwell Health Regina Phone: (306)787-4083

Battlefords Office Prairie North Health Region North Battleford Phone: (306)446-6606