Inpatient hemodialysis services

CHRISTUS Health has launched inpatient hemodialysis services at its Alice hospital, giving patients in the community access to a critical service closer to home.

Prior to the program’s launch, about 30 patients per month were transferred to facilities in other cities for dialysis treatment while hospitalized, requiring families to travel as much as two hours to remain close to their loved ones.

“Bringing inpatient hemodialysis services to CHRISTUS Spohn Hospital - Alice was a significant investment in the health of our community,” said Dr. Sridevi Konkimalla, medical director for nephrology services at CHRISTUS Spohn Health System. “This service allows patients to receive dialysis alongside other hospital-based care, creating a more personalized and seamless treatment experience.”

The addition of the program expands access to specialty care for rural communities, allowing patients to receive critical treatment while staying closer to family and other support systems.

“Expanding inpatient hemodialysis services is an important step in strengthening healthcare access for rural and underserved communities throughout South Texas,” said Richard Morin, president of CHRISTUS Spohn Hospital - Alice. “As the healthcare needs of our region continue to grow, we remain focused on investing in services that allow patients to receive high-quality care closer to where they live. This program is another example of our commitment to meeting those needs and improving access across the communities we serve.”

The new service allows eligible patients with end-stage renal disease to receive dialysis while being treated for other medical conditions at the same hospital, creating a more integrated care experience and improving continuity of care.

Since launching earlier this year, the program has completed about 50 treatments in three months, serving patients across South Texas, including Jim Wells, Duval, Kleberg, Brooks, Nueces, Live Oak and San Patricio counties.