Major changes are coming to the Dialysis Unit at Huntsville District Memorial Hospital Site. A multi-week renovation project kicked off November 12 and is expected to be complete by the end of January.
The renovation will result in improved patient care and safety, confidentiality and an improved work environment for staff by updating the infrastructure of the patient care station. The renovation will also create a permanent sixth dialysis station, with the potential to add additional stations as needed. Workflow will be improved by updating the patient care station, and the renovation will address infection control issues by including the creation of an isolation room, additional hand-washing sinks and increased space between Dialysis patients. The project also includes an upgraded water treatment system.
"We are thrilled to see this much-needed renovation project get underway,” said Harold Featherston, Senior Director of Clinical Support and Planning Services for Muskoka Algonquin Healthcare (MAHC). “It has been in the works for some time, but all of that work will soon pay off. Once completed, the remodelled space will make dialysis treatments more comfortable for our patients.”
The Dialysis Unit administers 12 dialysis treatments per day, six days a week and nearly 3,300 treatments on an annual basis. It has operated as a satellite clinic since 1996, presently under the Regional Kidney Care Program of Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital. The renovation project aligns with MAHC’s new Strategic Plan and efforts to create a Sustainable Future. The improvements will help MAHC to fulfill its vision of providing Outstanding Care that is People Focused.
Board chair Larry Saunders commended the community for its support of the Dialysis renovation. “MAHC is very grateful to the Huntsville Hospital Foundation for its $150,000 commitment to this project,” he said. “In addition, the Foundation has secured a five-year pledge of $100,000 from Scotiabank and in appreciation of that financial support they will be recognized with the naming of the HDMH - Scotiabank Dialysis Service.”
During the renovation period, hospital users can expect to see temporary hoarding enclosing the construction site. There will be no interruption to the Dialysis service during the renovation. Patients will continue to receive their treatments in a temporary location on the first-floor of the hospital. Additional signage will be installed to help direct staff and patients during the renovation period.
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