(WATERVILLE) March 9, 2010 - - Beginning today, the Upper River Valley Hospital will double its capacity to provide renal dialysis services.

"This is wonderful news for the Upper River Valley as traveling long distances for this essential service can be a hardship for individuals and families," Says Donald J. Peters, President and CEO of Horizon Health Network. "The additional funding of $200,000 from the Department of Health will expand the service from three days a week to six days with the ability to treat a total of 20 patients."

"In keeping with our strategic plan, we are committed to enhancing access to health care throughout Horizon Health Network and are thankful to the government's commitment in supporting our mission," says Peters.

"Our government is committed to improving access to health care services, ensuring high-quality services are available at the right time, in the right place," said Health Minister Mary Schryer. "We are pleased to have provided the funding necessary to double dialysis capacity at the Upper River Valley Hospital. The expanded service capacity will assist many families and individuals in the Upper River Valley by reducing, if not eliminating, the need to travel outside the region for dialysis services."