Kidney clinic demand eased after $300,000 overhaul

BENDIGO Health has completed the expansion and refurbishment of its Renal Service, including the installation of four new renal chairs within its Community Dialysis Unit.

A $300,000 contribution was made to the project by the Federal Government.

The Renal Service is the sole regional hub for kidney disease and kidney failure care in the Loddon Mallee region and provides specialist dialysis programs, acute inpatient care, chronic outpatient management and ambulatory services from Bendigo Health’s Clinical Services Campus.

Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards said the government’s support towards the cost of the new chairs ensures patients can continue to receive high-quality, life-sustaining therapy close to home.

“With dialysis demand rising steadily, this investment allows us to meet current needs and future-proof the service for people not only living in Bendigo but across the Loddon Mallee region,” she said.

“The community and acute dialysis units were operating at 97 per cent capacity, with community patients increasingly relying on the services originally designed for acute cases only.

“The additional chairs increase total service capacity from 65 to 77 patients, relieving pressure on both units and reducing risk for those requiring urgent care.”

Patients were actively involved in the refurbishment planning, contributing to the design of a more welcoming and comfortable space.

Chronic kidney disease prevalence continues to rise in the Loddon Mallee, with patients requiring dialysis three times per week to survive, making timely and reliable access to treatment non-negotiable.

The Community Dialysis Unit is located at Bendigo Health’s Clinical Services Campus in Stewart Street.