In a remarkable demonstration of dedication to combating the complexities of chronic kidney disease, the National Kidney Foundation Singapore (NKF), alongside B. Braun Singapore (BBSG), orchestrated a fruitful three-day visit and meeting held at B. Braun Avitum Philippines (BAPH) and various key hospitals in Metro Manila from 29 – 31 August 2023. This event transcended geographical boundaries, provided an excellent platform for networking and fostered meaningful connections, emphasizing the importance of sharing expertise and connecting many dots with different stakeholders and creating new possibilities.

Driven by their guiding principle of being an advocate and integrator of kidney health and holistic care for the CKD community, the NKF stands as one of Singapore's leading non-profit organizations dedicated to renal care. With a deep-rooted commitment to providing affordable, sustainable, and top-notch renal care services, they have embarked on an meaningful journey of exploring a potential collaboration with BBSG under a meticulous tender process. The group of 9 delegates was led by their CEO, Mr. Tim Oei, Medical Director, Prof. Jason Choo and Deputy Nursing Director, Ms Pauline Tan.

In the spirit of Sharing Expertise, B. Braun Singapore and B. Braun Avitum Philippines jointly combined efforts in sharing the benefits and actual utilization of ECOmix Revolution System. The delegates were brought to University of Santo Tomas Hospital (USTH) and Manila Doctors Hospital (MDH) where two of the eight ECOmix System in the Philippines are currently installed. As the National Kidney Foundation, Singapore is currently treating 5,478 patients nationwide (and currently growing), space is one of the challenges in their forty-one (41) dialysis centers. Known for its efficiency value to the customers, the ECOmix System Revolution found its way in the minds of the SG delegates as they witnessed the benefits being provided to the MDH and USTH dialysis units. Through these efforts, the B. Braun organization is one step closer in having a long-term partnership with the Foundation for centralized concentrate supply system for acid concentrate. 

This momentous collaboration between the NKF and BBSG also sparked future relevant partnerships between B. Braun Avitum Philippines and NKF for a possible nursing rotation program for Filipino nurses of B. Braun. In addition, further partnerships with NKF were explored between USTH, MDH, as well as the premiere renal service hospital in the Philippines, National Kidney and Transplant Institute. Discussions were made on the possibility of rotations to NKF Singapore for medical residents and fellows from these three nephrology training hospitals. By pooling their collective expertise, resources, and dedication, these entities are poised to make a substantial and lasting impact on the lives of individuals affected by this debilitating condition. 

Moreover, the collaborative efforts between the NKF and BBSG serve as an example of how public-private or foundation-based partnerships can effectively address complex healthcare challenges. As the demand for renal care continues to surge, particularly with a staggering 60% of CKD patients requiring comprehensive treatment, the NKF and BBSG are united in resolving to enhance patient support and deliver the highest standards of renal care assistance.

 Through this groundbreaking partnership, the National Kidney Foundation Singapore, B. Braun Singapore, and B. Braun Avitum Philippines demonstrated their dedication to improving the lives of those suffering from chronic kidney disease. By combining their minds, resources, and expertise, they are poised to foster innovation, drive positive change, and set new benchmarks in the realm of renal care, ultimately contributing to the overall well-being and quality of life of individuals in need.