HSE to fast-track kidney dialysis treatment plan

THE Health Service Executive has moved to fast-track a plan to double capacity at the kidney dialysis unit at the Mid-Western Regional Hospital.

Last month the HSE revealed that it could take no more new dialysis patients at its Limerick unit which is working 24/7 most of the week. For the past few months, seven new Mid-West dialysis patients have been travelling for dialysis in Tralee, Galway, Tullamore and Kilkenny.

The Mid-Western Regional hospital said it needs €30 million to expand the dialysis unit to cater for the growing number of patients. The HSE said yesterday a 15-station new dialysis unit will be opened at the Dooradoyle hospital within the next six months.