South western Sydney residents will benefit from a fantastic new service designed to support and cater to the needs of people living with End Stage Kidney Disease (ESKD).
The Renal Supportive Care Service is a collaboration between the Renal and Palliative Care departments and designed for patients who decide dialysis may not be the appropriate pathway for them, as well as for patients who are on dialysis but continue to have severe symptoms and poor quality of life.
It was launched during the week.
SWSLHD Clinical Manager Cardiovascular Service Jodie Ekholm said the new service, which was developed by the NSW Agency for Clinical Innovation (ACI) and Ministry of Health, has been openly embraced by the District.
“What is wonderful about this service is that it has a multi disciplinary support network of people designed to help patients who decide not to go on dialysis in all areas of their needs,” Ms Ekholm said.
“The Renal Supportive Care Team consists of a Clinical Nurse Consultant, dietitian, social worker and doctors who will support each patient for ongoing clinical symptoms, dietary assistance and emotional support.
“We support patients during hospital admission, in the Renal Supportive Care Clinic and at home.
“The Clinic will provide management advice to the patient’s kidney specialist and General Practitioner – who will continue to manage them,” she said.
SWSLHD Director Renal Services Tim Spicer said the new service was a great addition to the Renal Unit.
“We now have a dedicated team to look after those people who decide not to undergo dialysis,” Dr Spicer said.
“The aim really is to improve the symptom management and quality of life for these patients.
“As well as their special clinics, the team will be able to offer an outreach service with regular communication and a home visit service.
“The team will also offer specialist advice on pain and symptom treatment for existing dialysis patients.
“It is wonderful to be able to launch this fantastic service during Kidney Health Week and Palliative Care Week (22 – 28 May),” he said.
