I. Purpose, Mission Statement, Goals

With a membership upwards of 60, the Inland Empire CNSW Chapter offers a robust opportunity of continuing education and networking for nephrology social workers and students within the region.

Using a wide range of venues, the Inland Empire Chapter hosts semi-annual meetings providing a continental breakfast, lunch, open discussion, presentations from experienced professionals, and the opportunity to meet and greet with colleagues in the field.

The Council of Nephrology Social Workers (CNSW) is a professional membership council within the National Kidney Foundation (NKF). CNSW's purpose is twofold:

• to assist patients and their families in dealing with the psychosocial stresses and lifestyle adjustments that come with a diagnosis of CKD and to facilitate a treatment program that will maximize rehabilitation potential; and
• to support the federal regulations governing ESRD reimbursement in regard to standards for social work practice and in the definition of a qualified social worker.

NKF – CNSW National Goals:

1. Develop and promote patient education.
2. Support and promote the profession and education of renal social worker.
3. Impact regulatory and legislative issues.
4. Ensure the use of qualified social workers in the CKD setting.
5. Provide ongoing support and education to the CKD patient.