LAUNCESTON Hospital has received a new dialysis unit, which will significantly improve the quality of life of patients in the area, according to provider Renal Services (UK).

Launceston was chosen to receive the unit, thanks to its central location in the region, good transport links, and easy access to popular tourist sites where there is no NHS provision of satellite dialysis for patients living locally to have their regular treatment.

Patients from Launceston area travel to Plymouth for their dialysis, and the service has been made available to the local trust, should there be patients willing to be treated locally rather than make what sometimes amounts to a three hour journey to Plymouth three times a week. Not having to travel long distances can significantly enhance a patient's quality of life, and at the same time, offer a huge cost saving to the NHS in reduced transport journeys.

Renal Services is the UK's largest provider of holiday dialysis treatment, and year on year Cornwall is identified as the top holiday destinations in their patient surveys, where it proves almost impossible for some to get holiday dialysis unless they book months in advance. Since April 16, Renal Services have treated over 40 patients who have visited Cornwall for holidays with family and friends.

For the full report, and a round-up of the area news and sport, see this week's edition of the Post.