Blessing kidney specialists now seeing patients monthly in Macomb

MACOMB, Ill. — Dr. Theseswi Pujar and nurse practitioner Taylor Welch with the Blessing Hospital Nephrology department, are seeing patients monthly at the Macomb Clinic, 437 E. Grant.

Certified by both the American Boards of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, Pujar says seeing patients at Macomb Clinic provides a couple of major benefits.

“I want to increase awareness of kidney and kidney-related issues to help patients enjoy a better quality of life, and improve access to kidney care in the area,” Pujar said in a press release.

Up to 37 million Americans have kidney disease. The American Kidney Fund reports kidney disease is growing at an alarming rate, currently affecting one in seven American adults, with people of color at greater risk for kidney failure.

Uncontrolled blood sugar and high blood pressure are among the leading causes of the kidney disease. Being physically active, keeping a healthy weight, following a kidney-friendly food and fluid plan and getting tested for kidney disease can reduce its risks.

Welch is certified by the American Board of Critical Care Nurses. She says she is drawn to caring for people with kidney disease and related issues.

“It encompasses not only renal failure but a variety of other complex medical issues,” Welch said. “I care for these patients if they need hospitalization, and follow up with them on an outpatient basis. I truly get to see their progress and can form deep relationships.”

People in the Macomb area with kidney-related healthcare needs can call the Blessing Hospital Nephrology department at 217-214-6260 and ask for an appointment at the Macomb Clinic.

For more information on the care available from the Blessing Health Nephrology team, visit https://www.blessinghealth.org/kidney.