Southern Alberta hemodialysis laboratory receives multi-million-dollar boost

Southern Alberta's hemodialysis care has received a significant boost with a $23.4 million investment from the Government of Alberta, leading to an upgraded laboratory in Lethbridge. Cases of kidney disease have risen 20% in the past five years, making dialysis a critical life-sustaining option for many.

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(Aside from) a kidney transplant, dialysis is the only life-sustaining option for a lot of these folks, unfortunately.

The new hemodialysis lab, located within the Chinook Regional Hospital, has expanded from 24 to 30 treatment stations, a 25% increase. The unit's relocation to a ground-level space with large windows has also been praised for creating a more vibrant and mentally uplifting environment for patients who spend up to four hours per session.

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It was very exciting when we opened our doors and could finally move in.

A key new offering is the introduction of eight-hour overnight dialysis sessions, a service previously unavailable south of Calgary. This allows patients to undergo treatment while sleeping, facilitating a more normal work-life balance. "They can carry on and work and live out their lives after dialysis. So, it’s a pretty amazing upgrade," said Scott Holland, executive director of Alberta Kidney Care (South).

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It makes them feel mentally better and that turns into physically better. A lot of our patients have given us excellent feedback on how bright it is in here.

Officials highlighted the investment as crucial for ensuring patients in the south region receive necessary services without having to travel. "This is a significant investment in the south and south region so that patients don’t have to travel to other sites for the services that they need," stated Nathan Neudorf, Lethbridge-East MLA. The region is also seeing other health infrastructure improvements, including upgrades in Taber, a new health center in Cardston, and a future cardiac care center in Lethbridge.

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We do have the ability to go to a nocturnal option, allowing people to spend the night and dialyze overnight rather than coming in during the day.