Choosing a dialysis provider is an important decision for a dialysis patient. There are many options available, including home dialysis, in-center dialysis, and peritoneal dialysis. Patients should also know that they have rights. This includes the right to privacy and to be treated with respect. Additionally, they should be able to express any concerns or complaints they have with their health care provider.
When choosing a dialysis provider, make sure you ask a lot of questions. Your healthcare provider will be able to help you understand your treatment options and make an informed decision based on your unique situation. You can also request to speak to a dietitian to learn about the best options for you.
Infections are common among dialysis patients and can be serious. They can be spread from one person to another, by inhaling respiratory droplets from a sick person’s cough, or within the dialysis facility by unclean hands and surfaces. Infections can be dangerous and can lead to hospitalization or permanent disability. Dialysis patients are more at risk for developing infections due to the frequent turnover of patients and the close proximity of dialysis equipment and patients.
Patients receiving dialysis from a Midwestern dialysis network between 2001 and 2010 were linked to the United States Renal Database System, and data on outpatient visits was retrieved for these patients. Patients were further classified into quartiles based on the number of primary care visits per person-year. The top and bottom quartiles represented patients with high and low levels of primary care. Patients were also assessed for their demographic and health-related characteristics.