The new Vernon Community Dialysis Unit (photo courtesy of Interior Health)

By Liam Verster

Kidney Treatment

Expanded dialysis unit opening in Vernon

May 2, 2025 | 1:40 PM

A new centre for people needing kidney treatments is opening in Vernon.

Interior Health said the expanded and relocated Vernon Community Dialysis Unit will open Monday, May 5.

“For people living with chronic kidney disease, access to timely, high-quality care makes the world of difference,” Josie Osborne, Minister of Health, said.

“This new dialysis unit will ensure that people in Vernon can get comprehensive, compassionate care in their home communities, and is a reflection of our commitment to improving health services for patients in the North Okanagan. I’m deeply grateful to the health-care teams and community partners who made this new space a reality.”

The Vernon Community Dialysis Unit (CDU) will operate out of unit #400-4400 32nd Street, Monday to Saturday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

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The facility will be able to treat 15 patients at a time, up from the nine chairs offered at the old unit.

“As a registered nurse and MLA, I know how life-changing and life-saving access to dialysis care can be for people living with chronic kidney disease,” Harwinder Sandhu, MLA for Vernon-Lumby, said.

“That’s why I’m so proud to see this new facility opening its doors to patients, It’s the result of strong collaboration with local partners and a shared commitment to improving health care for people in the North Okanagan.”

The Vernon CDU will have ceiling lifts to assist people with mobility challenges, droplet-precaution rooms to prevent infection and control treatment standards, and radiant heaters to accommodate patients who are more sensitive to cold due to vascular disease.

The new unit will also allow nurses to offer training for home dialysis treatment methods.

“Expanding the Community Dialysis Unit in the North Okanagan will improve access to life-sustaining care for people living with chronic kidney disease,” Susan Brown, president and CEO, Interior Health, stated.

“We are committed to making it easier for patients to access consistent, high-quality support, ultimately leading to better health and well-being.”

BC Renal provided $4.1-million for the unit’s relocation and renovation, while the Vernon Jubilee Hospital Foundation contributed $95,000 for patient lockers, wall murals, additional furniture, emotional support pet beds, bariatric hemodialysis chairs, and enhancements to the waiting and hybrid rooms.

“With this new facility in Vernon, Interior Health will improve access to care while prioritizing culturally safe, person-centered services,” Dr. Adeera Levin, executive director of BC Renal, noted.

“This initiative aligns with BC Renal’s commitment to providing care that respects the diverse needs and experiences of patients in their communities. It also promotes independent and home-based therapies, which lead to improved health outcomes and a better quality of life.”