Listen
New renal unit for Galloway
30/07/2007
The new state-of-the-art renal unit at Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary was showcased today ahead of the health board's annual review.
Health and Wellbeing Secretary Nicola Sturgeon visited the Dumfries-based unit which is now linked to a new satellite renal facility at Galloway Community Hospital in Stranraer.
Ms Sturgeon said:
"The new renal unit has been upgraded to ensure dedicated local services for the people of Dumfries and Galloway both now and in years to come.
"The facilities allow medical staff to provide a first class service for patients via a dedicated video link and thanks to this, patients no longer have to make the long 150 mile round trip to Dumfries for dialysis three times a week. from the Stranraer and Galloway areas.
"Everyone involved in the project should be very proud of this new service, which offers comfortable surroundings for patients and their families, as well as a pleasant working environment for staff."
Commenting on NHS Dumfries and Galloway's review, Ms Sturgeon said:
"The annual reviews will highlight success and give credit where credit is due. But I also want to use these reviews to challenge when necessary, scrutinise local performance and drive forward further improvement."
Annual reviews of all Scottish health boards will cover:
- activity and efficiency
- waiting times
- regional planning
- public involvement
- finance
- future plans