NKF Initiatives in Dialysis

The National Kidney Foundation (NKF) has outstanding programs and resources to further educate, empower and encourage the 26 million people affected by chronic kidney disease (CKD), as well as donation and transplantation. This section of our website lists some of the ways we assist and support dialysis patients, family members and healthcare providers. Patient health care and quality of life is the NKF's top priority, and we work with and for patients and professionals to ensure that we provide the support and services that the dialysis community needs.

NKF Statement Regarding FDA Approval of Modified Language on Labels for ESAs

Dialysis Saves Lives
Watch as four dialysis patients, aged 9-70, talk about their experiences, including their fears at being diagnosed, their treatment routines and the ultimate realization that they can still lead normal, productive lives.


Get the Facts on Dialysis

NEW!Have you thought about dialysis at home?

Dialyisis CoverPatients with stage 4 or stage 5 kidney disease need to make informed choices about their kidney failure treatment, and the first step is learning about all the different options, including home dialysis ––both peritoneal dialysis and home hemodialysis. This new booklet presents information in easy–to–understand language to help patients beginning treatment or those interested in switching their current modality understand the importance of being involved in decision–making. It provides honest and unbiased answers to frequently asked questions about safety and how choice of therapy can affect your overall health and remaining kidney function. In an appealing and colorful design, it also clarifies common misperceptions. A work sheet is included and patient learners are encouraged to jot down their own perceptions as they learn more about the different options.

Below is a listing of some of the other programs and resources that the NKF offers the CKD community. Please check back regularly, as we may change existing or create new programs to respond to the growing needs of people affected by CKD.

NKF's "People Like Us" Join the fastest growing advocacy movement for people with CKD, transplant candidates and recipients, caregivers, donors and donor family members. Click on the link to find out how to be your own best advocate, by learning about and becoming active in your healthcare decisions and raising awareness about CKD. Through the "People Like Us" Take Action Network you can make your voice heard on policies and issues that effect you and others.

The National Kidney Foundation's Patient and Family Council – is one of several "People Like Us" constituent groups, with a membership of more than 30,000 individuals and their loved ones that are affected by CKD stages 1-5. Membership in the PFC is free. – The PFC website includes supportive resources and ways for the members to communicate with one another through;

The NKF has also been a key participant in these Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services national coalitions aimed to improve care and treatment for people on dialysis:

Please continue to check this page to learn about the latest NKF programs and services for the CKD/dialysis community. Also, to learn more about how you can become a strong advocate for yourself others affected by CKD and dialysis, please see our HOW TO BE AN ADVOCATE FOR CKD AND DIALYSIS FACTSHEET