15 July 2011
A brand new, state-of-the-art dialysis centre - complete with the latest in cutting edge technology - has opened for patients in Epsom and the surrounding area, right in the centre of town.
The unit, located on Kiln Lane in Epsom Business Park, means people with renal (kidney) disease will be able to dialyse closer to home, and will save them having to travel to hospital.
But that's not all. The centre boasts 20 individual dialysis 'stations', all with fully adjustable electronic chairs and flat-screen televisions so patients can watch their favourite programmes, listen to digital radio and use the centre's free WiFi facility in great comfort.
The centre, which is the ninth 'satellite' unit opened by Epsom, Sutton and St Helier hospitals, is run in partnership with Fresenius Medical Care Renal Services. It has the capacity to offer ongoing dialysis for up to 120 patients each week.
Dr Peter Andrews, the Trust's clinical director for renal services, said: "Patients who require dialysis need lengthy sessions three times per week. These units are purpose-built, state-of-the-art centres where people can get the treatment they need, closer to home, with reduced travel time, and in more comfort. They are great news for patients.
"Epsom is our most recent centre to open, adding to those we've opened in Purley and Sutton over the past two years. Sadly, we are seeing an increasing number of people with kidney problems, but units like this will mean they get the best care possible."
One such patient is Robert Gunner, who was among the first to dialyse in the Epsom unit. He said: "Coming to this fantastic facility has made such a difference in terms of convenience, and has generally enabled me to enjoy life just that bit more."
The unit's manager, Jonathan Johnson, said: "Opening a centre like this closer to patients' homes also helps in maintaining a more 'normal' routine. Providing a bright, spacious and clean environment has a positive affect on patients' overall wellbeing and their dialysis treatment."
"Patients are delighted with the new centre and reducing their travelling time to receive their care means that they have more time to get on with their lives."
"We've invested in the latest treatments and technology. Our investment in staff also means that patients have access to the best possible and consistent dialysis treatment available."
