I've just read an article, dated 4th October 2012, that says home dialysis is now an option for some dialysis patients. Pardon? It's been an option for a while, hasn't it!
A recent article in Clinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology highlights the lack of acceptance of home hemodialysis, despite frequent claims that this is a cost effective solution. Newer home hemodialysis systems are easier for patients to use, but it suggests that many patients and physicians have little experience with home dialysis and so don't ask or prescribe it. The article hopes to overcome any barriers to using home dialysis
At the present moment, less than 2% of US dialysis patients are using home dialysis, partly because of the time to train the patient in its use, and a doctor and dialysis center willing to use the method.
But everyone involved in the chain of events from diagnosis to implementation is used to the standard idea of visiting a dialysis clinic at regular intervals. However the home option is cheaper and evidence is beginning to suggest that patients who can stick to the regime are healthier, the researchers said. One wonders why the insurers who are paying for treatment haven't spotted this option.
Many studies have shown that peritoneal dialysis is within the ability of many patients, and home hemodialysis units can also make life easier of the user. Including making holidays more practical.
But home dialysis does require a fair bit of commitment by the patient, and may not suit everyone. A little bit of effort to stick to the hygiene standards, a dedication to not taking short cuts or skipping a session. Not difficult, really.
But less than 2% of users out of almost 500,000 US dialysis patients says something is wrong. Are doctors hesitant to recommend it? Unfamiliar with the concept? Or just going through the same old routine of recommending a dialysis clinic with which they might have a financial arrangement?
Back in September 2011 we reported on a Scottish dialysis patient who undertook a long distance canoe trip, along with his portable dialysis unit, to raise awareness and money to fund more such machines (at the time there only 2 such machines in Scotland and about 70 in England).
