The Northwest Kidney Council (NWKC) recently hosted our latest “Council Conversation” focused on a topic that is increasingly relevant to kidney patients across the Pacific Northwest—home dialysis.
The conversation featured insights from a panelist of experts: Colin Roskey, Executive Director of Kidney Care Partners; Julie Barnes, Associate Kidney Care Advocate at Fresenius Medical Care; and Dana Camacho, Home Program Director at DaVita. Their insights highlighted the benefits, challenges, and potential solutions to expanding access to home dialysis.
Home Dialysis: Flexibility and Independence
Home dialysis includes peritoneal dialysis and home hemodialysis and they allow patients to manage their treatment from home, providing flexibility and control over their daily lives. Colin Roskey emphasized the potential for home dialysis to improve patient outcomes and reduce healthcare costs. He noted that home treatment allows for greater autonomy and can lead to improved quality of life by allowing patients to integrate their dialysis into their daily routines, rather than being tethered to a clinic schedule.
Dana Camacho highlighted that home dialysis does not mean a lack of connection with clinic staff. Patients continue to receive regular check-ins and home visits, whether they are located near or far from their local dialysis clinic.
Barriers to Access and Training
However, transitioning to home dialysis is not without its challenges. Julie Barnes pointed out that while home dialysis offers numerous benefits, many patients face barriers to accessing this option, particularly in rural areas and underserved communities. She highlighted that a lack of training resources and caregiver support often prevent patients from making the switch. Julie Barnes stressed that patients require not just technical training but also a strong support system to succeed with home dialysis.
For many, the emotional and psychological aspects of managing dialysis independently are just as critical as the technical skills. She highlighted the role of caregivers, who can play a vital role in helping patients through the transition and ensuring they stay on track with their treatment.
A Call for Policy Reform and Innovation
Both Colin Roskey and Julie Barnes emphasized the importance of policy advocacy in expanding access to home dialysis. Colin Roskey pointed out that policy changes, such as incentives for healthcare providers are key to making this option more accessible. He also highlighted the importance of technological innovations in home dialysis that make it easier for patients to manage their treatment remotely, with real-time monitoring and smarter equipment.
Bridging the Gap
The Council Conversation underscored the need for greater access to home dialysis through policy reform, expanded training, and better support systems. As all three speakers noted, home dialysis can significantly improve patient outcomes, but addressing access disparities is essential to making it available to all.
We appreciate the robust conversation shared by our panelists and conversation participants. We are excited to collaborate with our partners, healthcare providers, and policymakers to promote equitable access to home dialysis for every patient.
Watch the highlight video and full recording below:
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