The switch from beds to recliners at the dialysis unit in Corner Brook has some patients complaining that the chairs are uncomfortable.

Western Health, meanwhile, is promising to do what it can to address any concerns.

Manuel Herritt of Lark Harbour said the new chairs are hard on his back and hips, and leaves him "sore all over" when his treatment is completed.

Herritt has been receiving dialysis — four hours per visit, three times a week — at Western Memorial Regional Hospital for the past eight years. 

Until recently, he was able to lie in bed as a machine purified his blood.

His wife, Kim, said the switch to recliners was a step backwards.

She has heard of other patients complaining about back pain as well.

"I seen a man come in 90-odd years old and sit for six hours because he refused to get in the chair because his back is so bad when he gets out," she said.

Recliners are used across the country

Some patients are OK with the recliners, but those who don't have no option, added Kim.

"They can't say no I won't do it, because they won't live to see the next day," she said.

The Herritts said special gel packs were promised, but never materialized.

They have brought their concerns to Health Minister Steve Kent.

The director of patient services at Western Health, Tara Freake, said the recliners are used across the country.

'We're open to all suggestions and feedback, and we'll continue to work with the patients and family to make this as comfortable and we can for them.'- Tara Freake, Western Health

However, she said patients in Corner Brook seem to be having more problems with the transition.

"We're open to all suggestions and feedback, and we'll continue to work with the patients and family to make this as comfortable and we can for them," Freake said.

The manufacturer has told Western Health that the recliners are stiff when they're new, but will get softer with use.

Freake said the recliners are safer because they can help patients recover quicker if there's a drop in blood pressure.

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