New CSS Hemodialysis Unit in Penonomé Will Reduce Transfers to Aguadulce

The Social Security Fund (CSS) is moving forward with the installation of a new hemodialysis unit in the facilities of the former Penonomé “Manuel Paulino Ocaña” Polyclinic. This unit aims to reduce the need for frequent transfers of patients to the Dr. Rafael Estévez Hospital in Aguadulce, where they currently receive hemodialysis treatment.  The CSS, through a press release, reported that Coclé is the province with the highest rate of chronic kidney failure in Panama, representing approximately 55% of cases throughout the country. Penonomé, in particular, is one of the districts with the most patients on renal replacement therapy. In total, it is estimated that 104 people in the area require hemodialysis, 86 of them from Antón and 30 from Aguadulce.

CSS team conducts an inspection in the area where the hemodialysis room will be located

The new unit will have 30 machines in its initial phase, with plans to expand as demand grows. This measure will allow patients to access treatment nearby, avoiding frequent and costly transfers to Aguadulce, thus improving access and the quality of life of those affected.  Eric León, institutional medical director of the CSS in Coclé, together with his team, visited the facilities to assess the conditions of the place and define the work necessary to enable the unit. The former Penonomé Polyclinic currently houses the Penonomé Agency, but it has empty areas that will be used for this new infrastructure.  The move is expected to relieve pressure on Aguadulce Hospital and provide more direct and convenient access to patients in the region, he said.  The CSS plans to improve the country’s hemodialysis service through a contract with a new provider for the sum of $178 million.