Dialysis services have begun at the Lima Regional Hospital, allowing patients from Essequibo Coast communities to receive treatment closer to home, the Ministry of Health announced recently.
The ministry said the service became operational following the installation of equipment and other preparations. Rodwell Stewart and Hillary Allen were identified as the first two patients to receive dialysis at the hospital.
Treatment will be provided free of cost to eligible patients through the public healthcare system.
The ministry said dialysis services had historically been concentrated in a limited number of locations, requiring some patients to travel considerable distances several times per week.
The Lima unit is expected to serve patients within the hospital’s catchment area and neighbouring communities, reducing travelling time and transportation expenses. It is also expected to ease pressure on dialysis facilities elsewhere.
Dialysis is used to sustain patients whose kidneys can no longer adequately perform essential functions. The ministry cautioned, however, that not everyone diagnosed with kidney disease requires the treatment.
Patients must first be assessed by a qualified healthcare professional. Medical teams will determine whether dialysis is required and whether the person is suitable for treatment at the Lima facility.
Patients who believe they may require dialysis have been advised to follow the established referral and assessment process and provide healthcare professionals with all relevant medical and medication information.
Those receiving treatment must also attend their scheduled sessions and comply with clinical advice concerning medication, diet and fluid intake. Complications or concerning symptoms should be reported promptly.
The ministry said the establishment of the unit formed part of its programme to decentralise specialised services and expand access to renal replacement therapy across Guyana.
Discussion