Nocturnal Haemodialysis within the Toowoomba Hospital Dialysis Unit

Aim

Improves access to dialysis care by providing patients with more options of when and where they are able to dialyse.

Outcomes

Patients with kidney disease

• Supports independency, self-management and control of individual healthcare
• Assists improved quality of life e.g. enabling a better work-life balance
• Aids improved kidney health outcomes, with the ability to have dialysis for longer and more often (which improves fluid and diet restrictions, and can reduce the need for some medications)
• Means a person is able to dialyse while they sleep, freeing their days for a better work-life balance.
• Empowers patients to reach their life and healthcare goals
• Aids improved health and well-being

Clinicians / system manger

• Availability of specialised infrastructure combined with empowered staff supports a model of care that provides flexible, innovative and patient centric health service provisionCan be supported in a number of ways, including for patients that aren’t able to dialyse in their own home for various reasons
• Access to models of care that support independent dialysis releases resources for the support of more high needs/complex patients
• Supporting a specialised workforce that nurtures home and independent dialysis has a cost saving benefit for the health system, with (selected) improved patient quality of life and health benefits

Background

Nocturnal haemodialysis is an established model of care. Location is, by preference, usually in a person’s own home but if this isn’t feasible e.g. renting, alternative accommodation can be considered but may not always available. The opening of the new, purpose built, DDHHS home dialysis renal facility in 2019 provided this accommodation option.

Discussion

This model of care is made possible by innovative, specialised and dedicated staff who support patients to access care that responds to their personal situation and is their choice.

This provides a valuable option for self-management.

Evaluation of the model is in the successful uptake by patients in undertaking safe and independent haemodialysis, and in this case, in the utilisation of a newly built renal service facility that provides the physical resources.

Lessons learnt

It takes positive intent, communication, skills and resourcing to support a health service and a consumer voice. “Research shows that partnering with consumers delivers positive results for both health organisations and health consumers/carers, better health outcomes for all and more accessible and responsive services” (Ref: HCQ Partnering with Consumers).

References

New renal home dialysis service

Further Reading

AKC2026