Renal unit is ready for business

MARYBOROUGH Hospital's new $3 million satellite renal unit will start treating patients on October 10.

The long-awaited opening date, exclusively revealed to the Chronicle yesterday by Minister for Health Geoff Wilson, means patients will no longer have to travel to Hervey Bay or Gympie several times a week for treatment.

"This new unit forms part of the Bligh government plan to deliver more services, closer to home for locals," Mr Wilson said.

"Twelve patients are already booked in to receive their treatment closer to home."

Mr Wilson said the facility was tailored to the specific needs of renal patients, with specialised clinicians, the local Kidney Support Network and patients, having input into the design.

"Each patient has their own overhead remote controlled TV and a comfortable room for patients and visitors to relax and socialise in, with lounges and tea and coffee making facilities included," he said.

The need for a renal unit in Maryborough was first identified in a review of Fraser Coast health services conducted last year, which showed local access to renal services is an important priority.

"This importance can be seen by the many generous donations made by various Maryborough community groups towards equipment and furnishings, such as an ECG machine, pressure cushions and a fridge," Mr Wilson said.

Mr Wilson said the renal unit was just one of the projects the Bligh government was working on to deliver more health services for Maryborough locals, close to where they live.