Easter is one of the major holiday seasons on the South African calendar and provides people with the opportunity to take a break and relax with family and friends.
However, patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) or kidney failure rarely enjoy this season as it seems impossible to go on holiday due to the daily or weekly renal dialysis treatments they need to maintain their health.
According to the latest statistics, approximately 14 per cent of adults in Sub-Sahara Africa suffer from kidney disease. Randfontein’s Life Robinson Private Hospital has a plan this Easter.
“Many patients with kidney diseases feel trapped or restricted in their daily activities because of the need to remain in close proximity to their renal dialysis facility. At Life Robinson Private Hospital we are committed to providing patients from various regions with easy access to their dialysis treatments, particularly during the Easter holiday season,” said Anette Gouws, unit manager at Life Robinson Private Hospital.
Patients are required to book their dialysis treatment sessions in advance by following these steps:
1. Contact the Life Renal Dialysis unit of your preference to schedule a booking with the unit manager.
2. Provide the Life Renal Dialysis unit with the following documents at least two weeks before commencement of treatment:
• ID/ Passport • Medical aid card (if applicable)
• Latest virology studies including urine and sputum MC&S results (as per infection prevention and control policies)
• Latest pathology results (Hb, U&E must be included)
• Referring doctor prescription / special orders (including iron and EPO)
• Completed Patient Holiday Document (obtained from your current Life Renal Dialysis unit or the Life Renal Dialysis unit which you wish to access)
3. If you are a member of a medical aid, the Life Renal Dialysis unit you have booked your treatment with will obtain the medical aid authorisation from your medical scheme. Alternatively, if you are private paying patient a quotation will be provided, and payment will need to be settled before treatment commences.
Anette added that their newest dialysis unit, Life Peglerae Hospital in Rustenburg, North West Province has opened.
“Patients considering a visit to the Pilanesberg National Park or Sun City can now schedule their dialysis at the Life Renal Dialysis unit at Life Peglerae Hospital and enjoy their holiday with family and friends.”
For more information on holiday dialysis at a Life Renal Dialysis unit, call 011 219 9626 / 9720 or visit their website at https://www.lifehealthcare.co.za.
