Ask the Doctor
Questions about kidney disease? Risk factors? Signs and symptoms? Are you concerned about yourself, a friend or family member? Ask Dr. Spry.
Patient & Family Resources
Click on the links below for additional support
Compare: Hospital, Nursing Home, Home Health, Medicare Plan Finder, Dialysis Facility, Physician
Go to Medicare.gov/QualityCareFinder or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) to find and compare health care providers. TTY users should call 1-877-486-2048.
End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) Networks
Prescription Assistance Programs
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or SSI (Supplemental Security Income)
If you believe your illness will prevent you from working for a year or longer, contact your local Social Security Administration office to apply for disability. Visit www.ssa.gov or call 800-772-1213 for information, to file a claim or to request publications. If you are not collecting Medicare already due to your age or diagnosis of End Stage Renal Disease, you will be eligible for Medicare after collecting 24 social security disability (SSDI) checks. If eligible for SSI, many states include the Medicaid benefit.
State Disability and Employment Programs
Many state social services agencies will help with medical expenses. For people with kidney failure who want to work, many states have specific vocational rehabilitation programs to help people with disabilities train for and find a job. Local or regional offices of state government agencies are listed in the blue pages of the phone directory. Additionally, the New Freedom Initiative's online resource for people with disabilities at www.disabilityinfo.gov has a search tool to locate state and local resources. A social worker at a hospital or dialysis center can also guide patients to community resources for vocational rehabilitation.
The NKF's Patient & Family Council is devoted to the needs of people affected by all stages of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and their families. It provides an avenue for patients to express their concerns and problems so that the NKF can help address them in an effective way. The Council acts as a liaison between the NKF and the kidney community, and as a voice within the NKF on patient issues.
NKF Cares Patient Information Help Line - speak with a trained professional who is available to provide support and resources to people affected by kidney disease, including patients, families, and caregivers. Call 855-NKF-CARES (855-653-2273) or email us at nkfcares@kidney.org.
Peers Lending Support Program - Have you been diagnosed with Chronic Kidney Disease? Would you like to speak with a peer mentor for support? If so please call toll-free 855-NKF-PEER (855-653-7337) or email us at nkfpeers@kidney.org. Visit our web site for more information and access to our free educational materials.