Enter and view: Colliers Wood Dialysis Unit

Healthwatch Wandsworth visited the Colliers Wood Dialysis Unit, operated by Fresenius Medical Care in partnership with St George's Hospital, to gather patients' views following major changes to local renal services after the closure of Knightsbridge Wing. Twenty-five patients were interviewed. 

Overall, patients were highly positive about the quality of care provided. They praised staff for being kind, respectful and supportive, and valued the clean, spacious and comfortable environment. Patients also appreciated the sense of community within the unit and generally felt involved in decisions about their care. 

While some patients reported difficulties when services were reorganised in 2016, particularly changes to dialysis times and locations, Healthwatch found that these issues had largely settled by the time of the visit. However, concerns remained about transport reliability, limited access to consultants, uncomfortable chairs, and a lack of understanding among some patients about the role of their named nurse.

Key Findings

• Patients were overwhelmingly satisfied with their treatment and had high levels of confidence in staff. 
• The transfer of patients from St George's initially caused disruption and anxiety but was managed effectively over time. 
• The unit's environment was viewed very positively, although some patients found chairs and cushions uncomfortable. 
• Some patients felt consultant availability was limited and that transport services could be improved. 
• There were concerns that increasing demand on renal services could reduce flexibility and patient choice in future. 

Conclusion

Healthwatch concluded that Colliers Wood Dialysis Unit delivers a high-quality service and that patients are very satisfied with the care they receive. The main recommendations focused on improving patient comfort, communication, transport arrangements and access to clinical support, while ensuring future service pressures do not compromise patient choice or care quality.