Patients Raise Alarm Over Hemodialysis Center Closure in Negros
BACOLOD CITY — Patients voiced their concerns on Tuesday, July 1, following the sudden closure of the government-run hemodialysis center in La Carlota City, Negros Occidental. The unexpected shutdown has left many dialysis patients anxious and uncertain about their treatment schedules.
The hemodialysis center located at Don Salvador Benedicto Memorial District Hospital ceased operations on Monday, June 30, with no official notice on when it might resume. “Dili gyud sayon para nako nga mo-transfer ug lain dialysis center,” shared one patient, highlighting the difficulty of moving to another facility.
Impact on Dialysis Patients
More than 130 patients receiving dialysis at this center are affected by the closure, local sources said. The sudden disruption has forced patients to seek alternative treatment options, a challenge given the scarcity of nearby facilities.
Financial Issues Behind Hemodialysis Center Closure
Provincial administrator Rayfrando Diaz explained that the center’s service provider, Nephroprime Corporation, abruptly withdrew due to unpaid fees from the provincial government. He noted that the provider complained of financial losses, as payments depend on the timely release of funds from PhilHealth, the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation.
“We cannot advance the amount due from PhilHealth,” Diaz emphasized, clarifying the financial constraints behind the stoppage of services.
Plans for Reopening and Safety Measures
Despite the current situation, Diaz expressed hope that the hemodialysis center will reopen soon after a comprehensive cleanup and safety checks. “We have to make sure our patients are safe and will be healed first,” he said, underscoring the importance of patient safety.
Meanwhile, the provincial government has retained 15 nurses who were working at the center starting Tuesday, ensuring staff continuity for when operations resume.
Temporary Arrangements for Affected Patients
In the interim, patients affected by the closure have been referred to other dialysis centers, local leaders noted. While this is a temporary solution, the lack of a local facility remains a pressing issue for patients in need of regular treatment.
For more news and updates on hemodialysis center closure, visit Filipinokami.com.