Claudia Reiter
Windhoek
“Today’s event marks a pivotal moment in our ongoing efforts to improve and expand the accessibility and availability of health services to our population in all parts of the country,” said Health Minister Kalumbi Shangula, adding that more than 85% of the Namibian population is dependent on public health services.
“For many years, there were no dialysis services in public health facilities. However, the demand for these services has increased. To meet the demand and meet the needs of our patients, the Ministry has decided to establish dialysis services in different parts of the country.”
Shangula explained that a dialysis unit is a life-saving treatment for people with chronic kidney failure. People with chronic kidney failure cannot filter their blood properly because their kidneys are no longer functioning properly. This can cause water, waste and salts to build up in dangerous amounts. If left untreated, this can even be fatal. “That is why dialysis is a necessary treatment to filter out these unwanted substances and maintain balance in the blood. This unit offers patients the opportunity to receive this life-saving treatment. After treatment, the patient can return to work, travel or live a normal life.”
A few years ago, dialysis services were only available to patients who were treated in the intensive care units of the Oshakati and Rundu state hospitals, as well as the Windhoek Central Hospital.
“One and a half years ago, the ministry decided to set up a dialysis programme in seven hospitals. Under this programme, the following hospitals will be provided with machines: Oshakati State Hospital – 16 machines, Katutura State Hospital – 16 machines, Rundu State Hospital – eight machines, Keetmanshoop State Hospital – five machines, Katima Mulilo State Hospital – six machines, Walvis Bay State Hospital – six machines and Otjiwarongo State Hospital – six machines.”
The introduction of kidney dialysis machines at Katutura and Oshakati State Hospitals has been completed, according to Shangula. “Commissioning and training on how to use the machines at the two facilities has also been completed. Refurbishment of the machines at Keetmanshoop, Rundu and Walvis Bay State Hospitals has also begun. For the dialysis machines in Otjiwarongo and Katima Mulilo, tenders have been invited, evaluated and awarded to suitable bidders.”
Shangula further explained, “Since July 17, the Katutura ward has been open and fully functional. We now have seven dialysis nurses and three nephrologists. Since we dialyzed the first patient here in July, the ward has held a total of 118 sessions in which 31 patients have been dialyzed.”
