Unique community dialysis care model
Over the last decade, NKF has redefined community dialysis care with the goal of helping patients remain and thrive in their communities. In delivering high-quality and sustainable person-centred care, NKF does not subscribe to a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, we focus on tailored care through innovative treatments to enhance patients’ treatment experience, in addition to addressing their medical needs. By empowering patients to make informed choices and integrate them into their personalised care plans, we support our patients in achieving better health outcomes and an improved quality of life.
Expanding nocturnal dialysis: Innovations in patient-centric care
NKF plans to significantly expand in-centre overnight haemodialysis capacity from 36 to 250 slots by 2027. We aim to offer nocturnal dialysis in five centres located in different regional zones, leveraging our extensive network of 42 centres islandwide, as part of our strategy to transform community dialysis care.
NKF first introduced nocturnal dialysis, the first of its kind in Singapore, in 2016 at our Hougang and Jurong West centres respectively. We have recently relocated one of our centres to a larger one with greater accessibility and convenience to better serve patients. Compared to conventional haemodialysis sessions which last 4 hours, nocturnal dialysis takes 6 to 7 hours at night. The extended duration allows for a gentler removal of toxic waste and fluids, reducing stress on the heart and enhancing patient outcomes. The overnight treatment allows patients to undergo dialysis while asleep, enabling them to utilise the daytime hours meaningfully with their loved ones, engage in self-care, or be gainfully employed.
To enhance patient comfort and safety during nocturnal dialysis sessions, NKF introduced plastic needles in 2022. These needles are specifically designed to accommodate tortuous vessels, minimising pain and discomfort caused when patients move their hands during sleep. This innovation allows for uninterrupted rest, reducing the risk of dislodgment that could potentially puncture the fistula (the surgical connection between an artery and a vein that enables blood flow during dialysis treatment) and cause bleeding under the skin.
“I choose nocturnal dialysis because it allows me to plan my day more effectively. Instead of spending four hours in the morning at the centre three times a week, I use my sleeping hours to undergo dialysis treatment at night.”
Tuginam Amin, 70, emphasising that she has the freedom to spend her day doing household chores, grocery shopping, exercising, visiting her grandchildren, and meeting friends for Tai Chi
Initiated a Kidney Supportive Care Programme
NKF introduced its kidney supportive care programme earlier this year, collaborating with palliative care providers and Public Health Institutions to offer comprehensive and compassionate end-of-life care tailored to each patient’s preferences and values. The programme’s personalised care plans, developed by a multidisciplinary team, empower patients and their families to make informed decisions, minimise symptoms and complications from kidney failure, and enhance their quality of life, enabling patients to live their last days with comfort and dignity.
Providing person-focused, holistic care beyond dialysis
Patients with kidney failure face numerous health challenges, including co-morbidities and psychosocial issues. NKF’s multidisciplinary team of doctors, nurses, social workers, dietitians, therapists, and exercise specialists provides comprehensive care and rehabilitation programmes to improve patients’ quality of life. The Renal Rehabilitation Programme empowers patients with knowledge and tools to effectively manage their treatment and associated complications, leading to improved well-being. As part of this programme, ‘Life@DC’ fosters a supportive community through therapeutic activities and outings, promoting social integration and a sense of belonging.
