Chronic Kidney Care Program
The Kidney Care Program at the Division of Nephrology provides patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) treatment, pain management, education and individual care.
More than a half million Americans require dialysis or transplantation due to kidney failure, and nearly 20 million adults across the United States demonstrate some evidence of chronic kidney disease. Early-stage kidney disease is often asymptomatic or silent. Most patients have lost a sizable portion of their kidney function by the time the disease is identified.
Causes and Care of Kidney Disease
The primary risk factors include: diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease and a family history of kidney disease. By controlling heart and blood vessel disorders and treating complications from kidney disease, patients can slow the progression of chronic kidney disease and reduce their risk of cardiovascular events.
- Kidney disease is managed through the following lifestyle changes:
- Maintaining normal blood pressure
- Managing cholesterol
- Reducing blood sugar
- Quitting smoking
- Regulating blood mineral levels
- Scheduling regular checkups to monitor vital signs and the progression of CKD
- Treating anemia
Our Dedicated Team
A diagnosis of kidney disease can be very troubling, so the Kidney Care Program staff works to provide the best care possible. We are specially trained in diagnosing and managing kidney diseases. We also build partnerships between patients and specialists in medicine, nutrition, education and social services.
In addition, our kidney care team determines the treatment plan and discusses education and counseling to help patients make informed decisions about their kidney health. This team includes: a nephrologist (physician who specializes in kidney diseases), a registered dietitian who discusses dietary changes with patients, a social worker who helps with patient education and insurance issues, a licensed nurse who monitors blood pressure and administers vaccines, and a care coordinator who makes all necessary appointments and referrals.
