NKF Weighs In on Proposed HHS Reorganization

The National Kidney Foundation (NKF) wrote to the White House expressing both opportunities and concerns about potential changes to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). HHS funds and operates research, initiatives, and programs that directly impact people living with kidney disease.

NKF urges federal officials to preserve kidney disease programs and prioritize prevention efforts.

NKF is closely monitoring proposed changes that could affect:

• Chronic disease surveillance
• Public health funding
• Kidney disease research

At the same time, a reorganization could create new opportunities to advance innovation, support chronic disease policy priorities, and strengthen research and development.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects 35.5 million Americans—yet 90% are unaware they have it. 

Without early intervention, CKD can progress to kidney failure, requiring dialysis or a transplant. Without meaningful action, the number of Americans with kidney failure could exceed one million by 2030, placing significant strain on patients and the healthcare system. Prevention is a proven, cost-effective solution—but it requires sustained national commitment.

In a letter to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), NKF urged the Administration to prioritize kidney health initiatives within the proposed "Administration for a Healthy America." With Medicare spending more than $130 billion annually on kidney disease and failure, investments in prevention could yield billions in reduced costs and improved outcomes.

Read the full letter. 

NKF voiced strong support for modernizing the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN) and creating an Assistant Secretary of Innovation. At the same time, the Foundation emphasized that effective CKD programs must be preserved and strengthened during any federal restructuring process.

NKF remains committed to ensuring the voices of kidney patients are heard—and to working with federal leaders to protect and enhance programs critical to kidney health nationwide.

Learn what NKF is doing to advocate for kidney patients.

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