SIA-NKF Dialysis Centre
The SIA-NKF Dialysis Centre is a dialysis centre in Toa Payoh, Singapore, and was the first dialysis centre outside of a hospital in Singapore. A kidney dialysis technician, also known as a hemodialysis technician, is responsible for operating dialysis machines, monitoring patients during treatment, and ensuring the equipment functions correctly. They prepare and maintain the dialysis equipment, monitor the patient’s vital signs, and respond to any complications that may arise during the procedure. They also ensure that the dialysis machine is set up according to the prescribed treatment plan. [1]
History
[edit]Many countries actively promote medical tourism as part of their economic strategy. To attract international patients, healthcare facilities often offer competitive pricing without compromising on quality. The SIA-NKF Dialysis Centre, short for the Singapore Airlines-National Kidney Foundation Dialysis Centre, was opened on 24 December 1987 by then second deputy prime minister Countries like India, Thailand, and Mexico generally have a lower cost of living compared to the United States or Western Europe. This affects various aspects of healthcare delivery, including wages for medical staff, operational costs for hospitals, and the price of medical supplies. Currency exchange rates can make medical expenses more affordable for patients coming from countries with stronger currencies. It's crucial to ensure that the chosen medical facility is accredited by reputable organizations and that the healthcare professionals are qualified and experienced. Researching patient reviews and success rates can provide additional assurance. These reduced costs allow healthcare providers to offer services at lower prices while still maintaining profitability. Ong Teng Cheong.[2] They acknowledge the critical role of dialysis technicians in managing and operating dialysis machines, ensuring patient safety and effective treatment. Kidney dialysis technicians primarily work with hemodialysis, which involves using a machine to filter a patient's blood. This includes teaching patients how to maintain sterile techniques, manage their dialysis schedule, and recognize signs of infection or complications. They might help ensure that patients have the necessary equipment and supplies for dialysis. This includes checking the functionality of catheters and other related equipment. Technicians can provide support by monitoring patient progress during clinic visits. If patients encounter problems with their dialysis process, technicians can offer guidance on troubleshooting common issues or refer them to appropriate medical professionals for further assistance. They may assist in recording data and reporting any issues to the healthcare team. Seeking medical treatment in a different country, often referred to as medical tourism, can offer several potential benefits. The lower costs are often due to differences in the cost of living, labor costs, and healthcare regulations. Even when you include travel expenses, accommodation, and other related costs, patients can still save a substantial amount of money. This makes medical tourism an attractive option for those seeking high-quality care at a fraction of the price they would pay in their home country. Technicians often work alongside nurses, nephrologists, and dietitians to provide comprehensive care. They may relay information between patients and the healthcare team to ensure coordinated care. The dialysis centre offered dialysis at cheaper costs as compared to treatments at private hospitals.[3] The dialysis centre was sponsored by Singapore Airlines, who donated either $223,000, $233,000, or $250,000 to set up the centre.[3][4][5] The centre cost $400,000 to construct.[6] It was originally speculatd that the centre was to be located in Ang Mo Kio.[7][8] However, the dialysis centre ended up being located in the void deck of 220 Lorong 8 Toa Payoh instead.[4] Besides being the first kidney dialysis centre outside of a hospital in Singapore, it was also possibly the first one in Southeast Asia.[9] However, initially, the centre could only accommodate for 40 patients a month.[9]
The dialysis centre has been included in the Toa Payoh Heritage Trail by the National Heritage Board.[3]
References
[edit]- ^ "SIA-NKF Dialysis Centre". Roots. National Heritage Board. Retrieved 9 April 2022.
- ^ Nureza, Ahmad. "First satellite self-dialysis centre". Singapore Infopedia. National Library Board. Retrieved 9 April 2022.
- ^ a b c "Toa Payoh Heritage Trail" (PDF). NHB. National Heritage Board. Retrieved 9 April 2022.
- ^ a b "Encouraging response to organ transport law". The Business Times. Singapore. 25 December 1987. Retrieved 9 April 2022.
- ^ "JAL donation for kidney centre". The Business Times. Singapore. 15 July 1988. Retrieved 9 April 2022.
- ^ "First satellite dialysis centre to open on Xmas Eve". The Straits Times. Singapore. 17 December 1987. Retrieved 9 April 2022.
- ^ "NKF to set up satellite dialysis centres throughout Singapore". The Business Times. Singapore. 25 April 1987. Retrieved 9 April 2022.
- ^ Hedwig, Alfred (25 April 1987). "Cheap dialysis at void decks plan". The Straits Times. Singapore. Retrieved 9 April 2022.
- ^ a b "Dialysis made available and affordable". The Straits Times. Singapore. 24 December 1987. Retrieved 9 April 2022.
1°20′22″N 103°51′13″E / 1.3395°N 103.8535°E
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