Renal hub to improve patient outcomes

GRAMPIANS Health has transitioned to become an independent renal hub which will result in expanded services.

Renal units in Ballarat and Horsham had previously operated as satellite services of Royal Melbourne Hospital, however, they are now directly managed by Grampians Health.

The transition will allow the introduction of surgical services for renal patients and an increase in the number of specialist nurses.

“This is a major step forward in how we care for people in our region,” Dale Fraser, CEO of Grampians Health said.

“Becoming an independent renal hub means we can deliver more responsive, locally managed care that reflects the needs of our patients and supports our dedicated staff.

“We also extend our heartfelt thanks to the Royal Melbourne Hospital for their longstanding support and collaboration, which has been instrumental in helping us deliver vital renal care to our communities.”

Grampians Health will be responsible for home dialysis services across the region and a dedicated regional coordinator is being introduced.

The organisation is the first in Victoria to install the latest Fresenius 6008 haemodialysis machines which streamline treatment setup, have enhanced monitoring features, and improve comfort for patients.

“Becoming an independent hub service means Grampians Health can now be responsible for managing all the components of our renal services —staffing, equipment, and clinical decisions— and focus on delivering high quality renal and dialysis care across the Grampians region,” Dr David Langsford, general manager of medical and clinical programs said.

“Being an independent hub allows for more agile responses to patient needs, better integration with other local health services, and a stronger focus on continuity of care across Stawell, Edenhope, Horsham and Ballarat.”