Dr Karisha Quarrie, Chief Medical Officer at Life Healthcare, has called for a more holistic approach to managing the condition, which continues to affect more people each year.
Quarrie revealed that one in every ten South Africans is living with kidney or renal disease, a figure that is growing at an alarming rate. This reflects a wider global health concern, as CKD increasingly poses serious health risks. When left untreated, the disease can result in the kidneys failing to filter toxins from the blood, often requiring dialysis.
In an interview, Quarrie highlighted the significance of integrating care in addressing CKD. She explained that the kidneys play a vital role in removing waste from the body, and when they are diseased, harmful toxins can build up, leading to serious health complications. Life Healthcare has responded with an integrated care programme, where a range of medical professionals, including nephrologists, dieticians, and psychologists, work together to treat patients.
The programme includes a care Co-ordinator who ensures that patients follow their treatment plans and monitors their kidney function through an electronic system. This approach has already led to improved patient outcomes, with attendance at dialysis sessions increasing from 85% to 97%.
Quarrie also discussed the challenges faced by patients undergoing dialysis, especially when they experience a complete failure of kidney function. In some cases, the lack of treatment adherence can lead to a fatal buildup of toxins. The integrated care system is designed to prevent such outcomes by closely tracking patient progress and ensuring they receive timely medical attention.
Finally, Quarrie acknowledged the mental health challenges that accompany CKD. Many patients experience depression, anxiety, and other psychological stresses. Life Healthcare’s programme addresses these concerns by identifying emotional distress early and connecting patients with mental health professionals, such as psychologists and social workers.
--ChannelAfrica--
