News / National
NAC throws lifeline at Parirenyatwa Renal Unit
05 Jun 2025 at 10:11hrs | Views
The National Aids Council (NAC) has stepped in to support the Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals' blood and renal unit, in a move aimed at ensuring safe blood transfusions and improved access to dialysis services, particularly for people living with HIV.
NAC chief executive Dr Bernard Madzima said the intervention would significantly improve the health-related quality of life for both HIV-positive and HIV-negative patients in need of renal treatment.
"As we know, most patients on antiretroviral therapy (ART) may end up with kidney failure and require dialysis," said Dr Madzima.
"This is a timely intervention that enhances access to critical renal services, and we are proud to assist the Ministry of Health and Child Care and Parirenyatwa Hospital in this important mission."
Statistics indicate that Zimbabwe records around 1,000 cases of kidney failure each year. However, only about 700 patients currently have access to dialysis, leaving hundreds unable to get the life-saving treatment they need.
Parirenyatwa Hospital has recently undergone significant upgrades, including the construction of a 21-bed renal unit and a new paediatric operating theatre. The revamped renal department now houses state-of-the-art dialysis machines and will be able to treat up to 63 patients per day across three sessions, easing the burden on the public health system.
"This expanded capacity will reduce waiting times and improve outcomes for patients," said a hospital representative.
NAC's involvement in healthcare infrastructure is not new. The organisation previously procured 16 cancer screening machines, which were distributed to rural health centres through the Health Ministry, further demonstrating its commitment to strengthening the country's public health system.
The latest support is expected to contribute meaningfully to Zimbabwe's broader efforts in ensuring equitable access to quality healthcare services for all citizens, especially vulnerable populations.
NAC chief executive Dr Bernard Madzima said the intervention would significantly improve the health-related quality of life for both HIV-positive and HIV-negative patients in need of renal treatment.
"As we know, most patients on antiretroviral therapy (ART) may end up with kidney failure and require dialysis," said Dr Madzima.
"This is a timely intervention that enhances access to critical renal services, and we are proud to assist the Ministry of Health and Child Care and Parirenyatwa Hospital in this important mission."
Parirenyatwa Hospital has recently undergone significant upgrades, including the construction of a 21-bed renal unit and a new paediatric operating theatre. The revamped renal department now houses state-of-the-art dialysis machines and will be able to treat up to 63 patients per day across three sessions, easing the burden on the public health system.
"This expanded capacity will reduce waiting times and improve outcomes for patients," said a hospital representative.
NAC's involvement in healthcare infrastructure is not new. The organisation previously procured 16 cancer screening machines, which were distributed to rural health centres through the Health Ministry, further demonstrating its commitment to strengthening the country's public health system.
The latest support is expected to contribute meaningfully to Zimbabwe's broader efforts in ensuring equitable access to quality healthcare services for all citizens, especially vulnerable populations.
Source - NewsDay
