Kidney patients give the Ministry of Health 72 hours to avoid the closure of more hemodialysis centers

Kidney patients in Santa Cruz declared themselves in an emergency situation after the closure of two hemodialysis centers in recent days. This Tuesday, they gave within 72 hours to the Ministry of Health to make payments due and ensure continuity of care.

René Hernández, president of the Association of kidney patients Vida y Esperanza, pointed out that this determination was reached because, to date two hemodialysis centers have been closed: Martin Dockweiler University Hospital and CHMA. The first provided care to 46 patients, while the second cared for 56.

“This situation affects us not only physically, but also psychologically, since in these centers we have created a family atmosphere. By going on dialysis three times a week, we got to know the staff and the doctors, so we are sorry to have to face this situation,” Hernandez said.

In this regard, he urged Sdenka Maury, head of the National Kidney Health Program, to meet with affected patients within 72 hours. In case of not obtaining a favorable response, he warned that mobilizations will begin as of next week.

“There is a lot of will on the part of the owners of private clinics, but They are at the limit and can no longer stretch. The situation is getting out of control and the health of the renal brothers is in danger, so I urge all the comrades to join this mobilization,” said Hernández.

In Santa Cruz, there are about 2,000 kidney patients who depend on the Public Health System and regularly attend dialysis sessions. Nationwide, the number of cases exceeds 6,000.