Headwaters Health Care Centre opens modern, renovated hemodialysis unit

Headwaters Health Care Centre and Headwaters Health Care Foundation are pleased to announce the grand opening of its renovated Hemodialysis unit, marking a significant milestone in our commitment to providing excellent health services, close to home. The renovation was made possible thanks to the generous contributions of our community through the Smart Headwaters fundraising campaign.

Hemodialysis treatments are life-sustaining for patients with end-stage kidney disease. Since treatments take up to four hours and are required three times weekly in a specialized treatment chair, patient comfort is a priority. Designed by Stantec Inc. and built by BDA, the newly renovated Hemodialysis unit is a cornerstone to providing dedicated patient-centred care, enhanced patient privacy and accessibility.

We are excited to welcome patients to this modernized unit, focused on our purpose to provide excellent care, close to home as we continue our vision of one community, caring together. “We are so pleased to have completed the renovation of our hemodialysis unit, guaranteeing continued access to excellent care for our patients close to home. Patient experience is our top priority. This successful completion was the result of extensive collaboration and partnership with our patients, staff and physicians, generous donors, our Foundation and contractors.” Kim Delahunt, CEO and President, Headwaters Health Care Centre.

Key features of the renovated hemodialysis unit include:

Convenient location: Returning to its original location on the main level of the hospital within the Ambulatory Care wing, with direct access from a patient drop-off area adjacent to the hospital.

Increased capacity: Expanded capacity to 9 stations, treating up to 54 patients annually. The department could treat up to 72 patients in the future, to align with regional capacity requirements.

Upgraded technology and features: New reverse osmosis water treatment system for water purification and a technical workroom to support monitoring and maintenance of the Hemodialysis machines. There will be also a new medication room with a workstation for pharmacists for the safe and secure management of medication. A new nursing station with direct line of sight to the unit entrance and all treatment stations. A new in-floor scale, designed to be level with the floor, ensuring both safety and ease of use for patients. Regular and accurate monitoring of a dialysis patient’s weight is essential for optimizing treatment outcomes, managing complications, and improving quality of life.

Enhanced patient experience: New ergonomic treatment chairs with customizable features and a layout designed to maximize natural light. Patients can enjoy customizations to seat settings, power recline, side tables, retractable footrest, and patient entertainment iPads. Treatment stations also have hygienic privacy screens, replacing traditional curtains, to partition treatment stations as required. Customizable lighting is available at each station. The layout provides more natural light throughout the treatment area.