Some Pinal County residents are concerned after dialysis center closes

MAMMOTH, Ariz. — For patients in and around Mammoth, Arizona, timely access to dialysis treatment is a matter of life and death.

Although there was only one dialysis center in the area that housed a few dozen people, it had a huge impact on the community as the only facility in existence for 20 years.

“It's a lifesaver and much needed,” said patient Manny Jubeta.

Fresenius Medical Care said its Kidney Care dialysis facility was temporarily closed starting July 16 due to “the need for unused equipment repairs.” Recently, the company decided to permanently close the facility.

“We understand that this may be an inconvenience for some of our patients and since July we have worked closely with all of our patients to provide them with the latest information and ensure that they are able to continue with their dialysis treatment. “We have arranged for alternative treatment options where they are available,” the statement said. “Nurses and patient care technicians have been redeployed to the Tangerine Crossing Fresenius Renal Care Facility to continue working alongside the patients who choose to be treated there and providing coordinated care with the same team of physicians and nurses. can.”

ABC15 heard from people in eastern Pinal County about how the closure has affected them.

Yuveta now drives more than 40 miles each way three times a week. He says he is one of the lucky ones.

“Some older people don't have a lot of mobility, they don't have a high income, and they rely on their spouse or friends to take them to a dialysis center,” Yubets says. “Dialysis is so difficult that some patients miss their dialysis sessions.”

Teresita Olmos is showing that same drive for her husband. She said it has strained her family's finances and they only have a car.

“The cost is on us and our vehicles. Fuel costs $140 a week and travel time is between 1 hour and 15 minutes to 2 hours, depending on traffic,” Olmos said. Ta. “I have not received any financial assistance regarding transportation.”

Diana Ortiz feels similarly. She now drives her husband 200 miles round trip several times a week.

“It's very difficult for both of us. We're very worried about gas, food and wear and tear on the car,” Ortiz said.

Edward Sanchez had to drive his mother to Tucson for treatment before the rural center opened. He is now advocating for the reopening of dialysis centers.

“Just having a center in Mammoth, we know what that means to the people who need it, because it's a big deal to get to Tucson,” Sanchez said.

The community is hoping someone will step into the gap in this medical desert and help.

“People fought so hard for this center, and I don't want to see it go,” Sanchez said.