Bendigo Health has completed a vital expansion and refurbishment of its Renal Service, in response to the growing demand for life-saving dialysis treatment in Loddon Mallee region.

The $300,000 investment by the Allan Labor Government includes the installation of four new renal chairs for the Community Dialysis Unit (CDU), significantly increasing capacity and enhancing the care environment.

The Bendigo Health Renal Service is the sole regional hub for kidney disease and kidney failure care in the Loddon Mallee. It provides specialist dialysis programs, acute inpatient care, chronic outpatient management, and ambulatory services from its Clinical Services Campus.

Visiting Bendigo Health today, Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards MP said the Allan Labor Government’s funding contribution towards the cost of the four new renal chairs ensures patients can continue to receive high-quality, life-sustaining therapy close to home

“The community and acute dialysis units were operating at 97 per cent capacity, with
community patients increasingly relying on the services originally designed for acute cases only." Said Ms Edwards

“The additional chairs increase total service capacity from 65 to 77 patients, relieving
pressure on both units and reducing risk for those requiring urgent care.” 

Patients were actively involved in the refurbishment planning, contributing to the design of a more welcoming and comfortable space.

Chronic kidney disease prevalence continues to rise in the Loddon Mallee. Patients require dialysis three times per week to survive, making timely and reliable access to treatment non-negotiable.