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At Home Medical Treatment To Avoid Disruption for Dialysis Patients

Over half of all kidney dialysis patients would prefer to perform dialysis at home for themselves but less than one in five currently have this option despite its potential to save the NHS millions.
Health - 10 March 2010   Download IconContent available for download:  
Audio | Interview with Dr Steve Holt discussing in depth about the lifestyle benefits of home dialysis| Login to Download

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  News Hooks:

Latest research for World Kidney Day (11th March) reveals that approximately 20,000 people currently require Kidney Dialysis, a process that filters the blood for those with kidney failure and is normally required daily to keep sufferers alive.

More than 50% of patients prefer to perform dialysis at home for themselves, allowing them to set a routine that suits their lifestyle. The Government and kidney disease experts also want to see more Dialysis patients being treated at home yet less than 20% currently receive home dialysis.

Treating more dialysis patients at home rather than in hospital could save the NHS millions as Kidney Failure care accounts for 2% of the NHS budget.

. Introduction:

This World Kidney Day (11th March 2010), latest comments from the NHS suggest that kidney disease is increasing, not just in the UK but around the world. For a small number of these people, kidney dialysis will become part of their healthcare routine. 20,000 patients already undergo dialysis treatment accounting for 2% of the entire NHS budget. Over half of all patients would prefer to perform their dialysis at home and this could also save the NHS millions, however, less than one in five patients currently have this option.

Why are so few Dialysis Patients given the option or encouraged to perform treatment at home?

Joining us in the studio is Consultant Nephrologist, Published Renal Dysfunction Expert, Lecturer and Researcher, Dr Steve Holt.

. Suggested Questions:

How many people in our area are currently undergoing Kidney Dialysis?

Why do some people require Kidney Dialysis, what it is and how is it performed?

What impact does home dialysis treatment have on a patient’s lifestyle when compared to treatment in hospital?

How could home dialysis save the NHS money?

Why are so few patients being offered home dialysis despite support from the government and kidney experts?

Where can we find out more information?