Enhanced Services Strengthen Families and Communities

Expanded Dialysis Services Benefit Gander and Surrounding Region

Through an investment of more than $240,000, four new dialysis stations will be added to the James Paton Memorial Regional Health Centre; allowing for an additional 24 dialysis patients to receive services in the Gander region.

“Our government has made significant investments over the past 10 years to enhance dialysis services across Newfoundland and Labrador. Through this investment of $240,000, the expansion of services in Gander will allow for residents who currently have to travel outside of the region for dialysis to remain closer to home, and it also provides additional space for future growth as the need for this service increases.”
- The Honourable Susan Sullivan, Minister of Health and Community Services

Renovations will be made to space adjacent to the existing dialysis unit. The renovation work and installation of the new dialysis equipment is expected to be completed this summer.

“I am proud to be a part of a government that places such emphasis on providing dialysis services to all residents of our province. The enhancements to the dialysis services at James Paton Memorial Regional Health Centre will benefit the entire region and allow for people to remain in or near their home communities while they receive these essential services.”
- The Honourable Kevin O’Brien, Minister of Advanced Education and Skills and MHA for Gander

Since 2004, the Provincial Government has invested approximately $225 million for the provision of dialysis services in Newfoundland and Labrador, doubling the number of dialysis sites to 14, with a new site to open in Harbour Breton this year.

“Dialysis treatments can extend life and improve quality of life for people suffering from kidney failure. Expanding the dialysis unit at James Paton Memorial Regional Health Centre means that we are enhancing access to this service. Through this investment, we will be able to offer dialysis to more patients, closer to home.”
– Rosemarie Goodyear, President & Chief Executive Officer, Central Health

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is committed to supporting important social programs, strong communities and the health and well-being of children, families and seniors.

QUICK FACTS

• Over $240,000 is being invested to expand dialysis services at James Paton Memorial Regional Health Centre in Gander.
• Four new dialysis units will be added to the health centre and an additional 24 patients will be able to be accommodated. This will allow residents who currently have to travel out of the region for dialysis to remain closer to home and also provide additional space for future needs.
• There are currently 34 dialysis patients using the services at James Paton, with the addition of the four new units, the dialysis site will be able to accommodate up to 58 patients.
• Since 2004, the Provincial Government has invested approximately $225 million for the provision of dialysis services in Newfoundland and Labrador.
• Over the past 10 years, the number of dialysis sites in the province has doubled and a new site will open in Harbour Breton this year.

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2014 02 27                                     2:45 p.m.