Health Minister, Simeon Brown says hundreds of patients from the central North Island will be supported at a new renal facility, Te Pureoranga – Waikato Regional Renal Centre at Waikato Hospital, which was officially opened today.
“Delivering improved health infrastructure is a priority for the Government. I am pleased for those patients who will be able to access life-saving care at the new Waikato Regional Renal Centre,” said Mr Brown.
“This is an essential service for those on dialysis and kidney transplant patients living in the central North Island. Having a purpose-built, high-tech building is a positive step in enhancing patient outcomes for the local community.”
Combining all outpatient renal services into a single site will make a real difference for patients who can now access comprehensive, coordinated care in one place, the Minister said.
“The facility, which is 70% larger than the previous centre, provides a welcoming environment for renal patients receiving care and their families, many of whom will be with the service for years.”
“It has been designed to allow for future growth, offering a long-term solution that meets both the needs of the community and international standards for dialysis care.
“Infrastructure like this makes a significant difference in improving access to timely healthcare and bringing services closer to home for Kiwis,” he said.
The new facility provides 53 dialysis chairs (43 for hospital-based treatment and 10 for home-training patients). It also includes a whānau room, along with additional clinic and education spaces.
Dr Andrew Henderson, Health NZ Medical Director for Cancer and Chronic Conditions for Waikato, expressed pride in the new centre, noting its importance to patients and staff.
“This facility is a testament to our commitment to renal patients, who often face lifelong conditions.
“To my knowledge this is the largest integrated renal service building in Australasia, and having all our healthcare professionals – nurses, dietitians, social workers, podiatrists, psychologists and more – under one roof will make a significant difference in providing comprehensive, coordinated care.”
The new centre has been built to modern standards – achieving a Greenstar 5 rating and is fitted out with the latest clinical technology and equipment.
