Guernsey's dialysis crisis deepens as Alderney loses local treatment forever
Guernsey’s dialysis unit is facing ongoing staffing shortages and supply chain delays, with no plans to reintroduce treatment in Alderney. Patients from the smaller island will now need to travel to Guernsey for care, as the local health service confirms funding for their relocation and accommodation. Staffing problems at Guernsey’s dialysis unit began in August 2024. The shortages have forced the island to rely on remote support from London’s Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust. However, even this assistance has been complicated by supply chain issues, making it harder to deliver essential medical consumables to the unit.
Further challenges lie ahead with major refurbishments planned for the dialysis unit. Flooring works will disrupt operations, adding pressure on both staff and patients. Meanwhile, the decision not to reinstate dialysis services in Alderney has been confirmed, citing cost and feasibility concerns. The last time a patient in Alderney received home dialysis was in 2016. Now, those needing treatment will have to relocate to Guernsey. Health and Social Care (HSC) has agreed to cover travel and initial accommodation costs for affected patients.
The dialysis unit’s upcoming refurbishments will bring additional strain to an already stretched service. With no return of treatment in Alderney, patients will depend on Guernsey’s facilities for the foreseeable future. HSC’s funding for travel and accommodation aims to ease the transition for those affected by the changes.
