Hopes a new dialysis unit in Southland improves access to life saving treatment

The purpose-built unit opened yesterday at Invercargill's Southland Hospital, offering five treatment spaces for outpatients and eligible inpatients, plus a dedicated area for dialysis training and follow-up care.

Health Minister Simeon Brown says the facility marks a major step forward for renal care in the South.

He says many Southlanders have had to travel to Dunedin three times a week for a dialysis until now.