Polokwane pensioner denied dialysis due to strict criteria
The Department of Health says dialysis eligibility in public facilities depends on kidney failure severity, life expectancy, and health complications.
POLOKWANE – A local patient, the 73-year-old Toekie Visagie* was recently admitted to the Pietersburg Provincial Hospital with severe kidney disease requiring urgent dialysis.
Although doctors inserted a hemodialysis catheter to prepare for the procedure, he was ultimately deemed ineligible for treatment due to strict selection criteria.
According to the Department of Health, factors such as severe kidney failure, low life expectancy, and other health complications influence the decision on whether a patient qualifies for dialysis in public facilities.
Department spokesperson Neil Shikwambana explained that due to limited resources, older patients undergo a thorough assessment to determine if they are likely to benefit from dialysis.
He also noted that a national shortage of dialysis machines and kidney transplant opportunities continues to affect many patients in similar situations.
Research has shown that patients under 60 are more likely to be prioritised for transplants.
While the hospital upgraded an old ICU into a renal unit in 2021, the number of dialysis machines remains insufficient compared to the growing demand. Meanwhile, the Visagie family is searching for an affordable private treatment facility.
The most cost-effective option they have found so far charges R2 000 per session, with three sessions per week required for an improved chance of recovery.
They, however, remain uncertain whether they can sustain the financial burden while he remains admitted to the hospital.
*not the patient’s true identity.
