Improved technology for dialysis patients arrives in Grand Forks

By Contributor

Twenty-six new Gambro Artis hemodialysis machines have been installed in community dialysis units across the Kootenays. These machines replace ageing equipment with state-of-the-art technology that makes dialysis more flexible and more efficient. This $750,000 investment in patient care is funded by the Ministry of Health through the BC Renal Agency, an agency of the Provincial Health Services Authority.

“The introduction of five new hemodialysis machines in Grand Forks is great news,“ said Boundary-Similkameen MLA John Slater. “With these new machines dialysis patients in Grand Forks and area are receiving the highest quality of care in their own community.”

The new machines are in place in the following Kootenay Community Dialysis units:

o Grand Forks: five machines
o Invermere: three machines
o Cranbrook: six machines
o Creston: six machines
o Sparwood: six machines

The new hemodialysis machines feature advanced technology that individualizes treatments and adapts to each patient’s physical state which results in better dialysis treatments.

“For many people with advanced chronic kidney disease dialysis is a way of life, so having these state of the art machines available in community dialysis units is a positive step forward in treatment, “said Norman Embree, Interior Health board chair.

Adopting and maintaining a health lifestyle is important for those receiving dialysis and for people who have recently been diagnosed with this chronic disease.

“In addition to dialysis treatments at our community units, the Kootenay Renal Program offers renal health education, nutritional information and social supports for residents with chronic kidney disease,” said Maureen Lewis, Kootenay renal program manager.

A multi-disciplinary team of dieticians, nurses and social workers work together with patients on care plans to slow the progression of their kidney disease through proper diet, exercise and medication while ensuring patients are receiving proper care.

In North America, BC was one of the first jurisdictions to offer a fully coordinated system of renal care to ensure that kidney patients across the province have access to the same level of care and treatment options.