Landmark Dialysis Center Opening in Capitola

For dialysis patients, daily life can already a consistent struggle. Especially in Santa Cruz County, where facilities have been too few and far outdated, this struggle is apparent. But thanks to a , a brand new dialysis facility is set to open in the coming weeks at 3801 Clares Street.

The center will be operated by Satellite Healthcare, which is based out of San Jose, and runs 49 treatment centers, about 32 of which are primarily for dialysis.

Capitola-Soquel Patch had the chance to speak with Dr. Surinder Kumar, one of the directors of the new center, about the opportunities it will provide the community. See highlights of the conversation below.

Capitola-Soquel Patch: How will this new dialysis center benefit Capitola?

Dr. Surinder Kumar: The dialysis center is for the whole county. Capitola being the center of the county, it's easy to commute and it accomodates all of the patient population. We have been looking for space for the last three years. After a long search, we felt this is the best space. There are about 100 patients who will be using the center three or four times a week.

Patch: Where is the next closest dialysis center?

Kumar: The next one is in Watsonville. This is a relocation of the center from Santa Cruz, on Soquel Avenue, but that center is 35-years-old and it's become old, outdated and there's not enough parking or space. We needed an updated facility.

Patch: It took a while for the city to approve this location.

Kumar: Some people were concerned that it wasn't going to be a retail space. But the patients' families will be walking around and spending their money at the mall. The owner said they've been trying to rent the building for two years. The mall is changing. I really think it's a great center, good parking and the mall will be a good neighbor and it will enhance Capitola.

Patch: When will the center open?

Kumar: We're having an open house [Wednesday], which is World Kidney Day and March is National Kidney Month. The state has to inspect the facility and approve it. That state says they only have a few people do to the inspeciton. So it's taken several months with the center sitting idle. Hopefully it will be approved this month. 

Patch: The population of people with kidney disease is increasing? Why is that?

Kumar: The population is getting older. So with normal aging, kidney function declines. Diabetes has also increased tremendously and diabetes is the most common cause of kidney failure. We have to work on our weight, cut back on sugary drinks for kids and make them more active. That goes a long way. We need to get people moving. 

Do you know someone on dialysis that will benefit from the new center? How do you feel about the spot on Clares Street not going to a retailer? Tell us in the comments!