2010, Number 4
Calculating the optimum size of a hemodialysis unit based on infrastructure potential
Language: Spanish
References: 13
Page: 315-323
PDF size: 139.36 Kb.
ABSTRACT
Objective. To estimate the optimum size for hemodialysis units to maximize production given capital constraints. Materials and Methods. A national study in Mexico was conducted in 2009. Three possible methods for estimating a unit’s optimum size were analyzed: hemodialysis services production under monopolistic market, under a perfect competitive market and production maximization given capital constraints. Results. The third method was considered best based on the assumptions made in this paper; an optimal size unit should have 16 dialyzers (15 active and one back up dialyzer) and a purifier system able to supply all. It also requires one nephrologist, five nurses per shift, considering four shifts per day. Conclusion. Empirical evidence shows serious inefficiencies in the operation of units throughout the country. Most units fail to maximize production due to not fully utilizing equipment and personnel, particularly their water purifier potential which happens to be the most expensive asset for these units.REFERENCES
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Just PM, Riella MC, Tschosik EA, Noe LL, Bhattacharyya SK, de Charro FT. Economic evaluations of dialysis treatment modalities. Health Pol [Internet] 2008; 86: 163 – 180. [Consultado 2008 Nov 5]. Disponible en: http://www.journals.elsevierhealth.com/periodicals/heap/article/S0168- 8510(07)00287-4/abstract
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10 United States Renal Data System. USRDS 2008 Annual Data Report: Atlas of Chronic Kidney Disease and End-Stage Renal Disease in the United States. Minneapolis: National Institutes of Health, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, 2008. [Consultado 2009 Mar 12]. Disponible en: http://www.usrds.org/adr.htm