The Fight Against Kidney Disease: The Cures Act and Push Towards Home Dialysis
Kidney disease affects millions of people worldwide, with its prevalence steadily increasing. In the United States alone, over 37 million adults are estimated to have kidney disease, and the numbers continue to rise. In the battle against this epidemic, recent legislative efforts are paving the way for groundbreaking changes in the treatment landscape. One significant stride forward is the emphasis on home dialysis as a viable and patient-centric option. In this blog, we explore the implications of these legislative efforts and the growing momentum behind home dialysis as a transformative approach in the fight against kidney disease.
Understanding the Impact of Kidney Disease
Kidney disease takes many forms but ultimately results in compromised kidney function. Chronic kidney disease slowly reduces renal function over time, while end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients need dialysis treatments or even a transplant to survive. Dialysis centers nationwide are struggling to meet patient needs. However, organizations like the National Kidney Foundation, backed by passionate patient advocates, are striving for better outcomes. This battle against kidney failure isn't just about extending lives; it's also about enriching them.
Home Dialysis - A New Direction for Kidney Care
Traditional in-center hemodialysis has long been the standard treatment for kidney failure. However, this method can be demanding on patients, requiring multiple visits to a dialysis center each week. Home dialysis, on the other hand, offers a more patient-centric approach, allowing individuals to undergo dialysis in the comfort of their homes. This shift is not only more convenient for patients but can also lead to improved outcomes and a better quality of life.
Flexibility and Convenience: Home dialysis provides patients with the flexibility to schedule treatments around their daily lives. This can lead to increased adherence to treatment plans and better overall health outcomes.
Improved Quality of Life: The ability to undergo dialysis at home eliminates the need for frequent trips to a dialysis center, reducing the physical and emotional toll on patients. This can result in a higher quality of life and greater independence.
Better Clinical Outcomes: Studies have suggested that home dialysis may be associated with better clinical outcomes, including improved survival rates and a reduced risk of complications compared to in-center dialysis.
Empowerment and Patient Engagement: Home dialysis empowers patients to actively participate in their care, fostering a sense of control and engagement in the management of their condition.
The Cures Act and Its Impact on American Kidney Health
For years, patient advocates have pushed for better treatment options to fight against kidney disease. In 2016, the 21st Century Cures Act was passed under President Obama's administration, a major milestone in improving care coordination for ESRD patients. With kidney failure patients often facing the challenges of lengthy waiting times for transplants and the burden of frequent dialysis sessions, the Cures Act seeks to streamline the approval process for new therapies and technologies.
Unpacking the Executive Order
In July 2019, President Trump signed an executive order titled "Advancing American Kidney Health." This executive order aimed to revolutionize kidney care by focusing on early detection, increasing access to transplants, and promoting home dialysis as the preferred treatment option. The order directed various agencies to develop and implement policies that incentivized both healthcare providers and patients to embrace home dialysis, with a goal in utilization of in-home dialysis treatment from 12% to 80% of dialysis patients by 2025.
Despite the significant progress, there are still challenges to overcome. Inadequate insurance coverage, limited access to training programs, and a lack of awareness about home dialysis options remain hurdles for many patients.
The fight against kidney disease is multifaceted, involving legislative measures, technological advancements, and a paradigm shift in the delivery of care. These legislative initiatives signify a commitment to transforming kidney care and improving the lives of millions affected by this chronic condition. The emphasis on home dialysis is not just a trend; it's a strategic move towards a more patient-centered, flexible, and effective approach to managing kidney disease. As the industry continues to rally behind this shift, overcoming challenges and fostering awareness, the future of kidney care looks brighter, promising better outcomes and an enhanced quality of life for patients.