Dialysis Center to offer convenient treatment

Date: 2/3/2009

By Katelyn Gendron

Reminder Assistant Editor



AGAWAM Taking a ride from one side of the Connecticut River to the other to receive dialysis treatment might not seem like a big deal for some, but for others it's a painstaking process requiring an ambulance ride and multiple inquiries to health care providers.

However, on June 30, all that will change when Genesis Healthcare's Heritage Hall Campus in conjunction with American Renal Associates opens a new on-site Dialysis Center, the only one of its kind west of the river.

"We are fortunate to partner with the Heritage Campus, clearly an organization that shares our philosophy that the delivery of quality patient care is our most important objective," Joe Carlucci, founder and CEO of American Renal Associates, said.

"At American Renal Associates we have several dialysis centers located within a skilled nursing facility and although this clinic will also serve the community, the combination of quality skilled nursing care and on-site quality dialysis services represents the best possible setting for the patient requiring both services," he continued.

"Why would a patient that requires dialysis treatments three times per week ever opt to be transported off-site, when this service is now to be available right at Heritage?" Carlucci asked.

The 6,000 square-foot Dialysis Center will be joined with Heritage Hall South and include 12 hemo-dialysis chairs, three peritoneal dialysis rooms and training areas for those needing schooling in home dialysis procedures.

"Whether healing from an acute situation or making a life transition, Heritage Hall can help," Heritage Hall Administrator Michelle Garrity, said. "Now with American Renal Associates, our planned Dialysis Center can provide our patients and residents with another level of care, all without leaving the facility."

Gina Impagnatiello, senior director of Admissions and Marketing for Heritage Hall Campus, noted that the Dialysis Center will not be limited to Heritage Hall residents. The facility is open to all those seeking dialysis treatment, she added.

For more information about Heritage Hall, 65 Cooper St., or the Dialysis Center, visit www.genesishcc.com.