Kidney Health Week is being observed at Broken Hill Hospital this week by the Broken Hill Health Service. As a part of this the residents will receive complete kidney check ups including blood pressure and blood sugar and advice regarding kidney health.
Clinical nurse consultant of renal services Penny Griffin said that every individual needs a complete kidney check up at least once a year. She said, “Kidney health is really important because you can lose 80 to 90 per cent of your kidney function before you start feeling sick, the easiest way to find out is through a blood test from your doctor,” she said.
On the other hand several kidney health experts believe that the government is neglecting renal health. According to recent figures at least one in six Tasmanians suffer from kidney disease and this initiative of Kidney Health Week can motivate many to get their kidneys checked up. Kidney Health Australia however has accused that in spite of several plans drawn up last year with the government to prevent kidney disease, little has been done.
The organization’s Carolyn Mackintosh cites lack of funds as a major reason. “They don't have a dedicated renal dietitian…When you've got kidney disease you've got a very strict and stringent diet you've got to follow, they don't even have specialized nurses in the community that are educating people in the later stages of the disease actually getting them ready for dialysis so they're really crying out for services and support,” she said.
Deputy Opposition leader Jeremy Rockliff also echoed these thoughts accusing the government of inaction. “The lack of action simply cannot be explained except to say the Government have not had the will or the inclination to address what is a major issue of chronic illness in Tasmania,” he said.
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