Detecting and Slowing the Progression of Chronic Kidney Disease
More than 26 million Americans have Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) and millions more are not aware they are at risk for the disease, which often is caused by diabetes and hypertension. Individuals with a family history of kidney failure are also at risk.
CKD decreases quality of life and increases health care expenditures. It now ranks as the ninth leading cause of death in the U.S. As a result, the Quality Improvement Organization (QIO) program directed a special effort to detect the incidence and slow the progression of CKD. As part of that pilot, Qsource worked directly with primary care physicians and nephrologists to increase the adoption of evidence-based standards for CKD care. We focused on three clinical areas:
- Timely testing for urine microalbumin to identify early kidney failure due to diabetes;
- Prescription of an ACE inhibitor and/or angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) to slow the progression of kidney failure in patients with diabetes and hypertension; and
- AV fistula placement for individuals who elect hemodialysis as their treatment option for kidney failure. An AV fistula is the gold standard for obtaining vascular access.
Although the QIO pilot project ended July 31, 2011, Qsource is pleased to offer an archive of the materials we developed and remains committed to reducing the burden of CKD. We welcome new funding partners to help us continue this important work.
To access or order CKD provider and patient education materials, please visit our online store:
http://www.qsource.org/tools-resources/store/
CKD Newsletter ArchiveFor More Information
National Kidney Foundation provides a wide range of CKD prevention related education resources and tools for health care professionals and beneficiaries.
National Kidney Disease Education Program provides resources for consumers and professionals to improve patient outcomes.
Renal Physicians Association provides resources for consumers and professionals to improve patient outcomes.
Fistula First Breakthrough Initiative provides patient and professional resources about AV fistulas.
