Shows
Kidney CommuteLegislation and Its Effect on Dialysis Patient ChoiceLegislation has played a defining role in how dialysis care is delivered in the United States, directly influencing access, coverage, and patient choice. In this episode of Kidney Commute: Pitstop, host Osama El Shamy, MD, FASN, FNKF, is joined by Lauren Drew, JD, and Eugene Lin, MD, MS, FASN for an in depth discussion on the policy decisions that have shaped kidney care.
The conversation traces key legislative milestones, including the creation of the ESRD benefit, the Medicare dialysis bundle, Medicare Advantage expansion, and the Advancing American Kidney Health Initiative. Speakers also examine the current legislative landscape...
2026-02-1938 min
Kidney CommutePitstop: Is Dialysis Nephrology’s Original Sin? A Dialogue Inspired by a Recent AJKD PublicationIs dialysis nephrology’s greatest achievement or its original sin? In this Kidney Commute: Pit Stop episode, host Dr. Osama El Shamy, welcomes Dr. Andrew Cohen, to discuss a provocative question that challenges how the field of nephrology has evolved. Drawing from Dr. Cohen’s recent AJKD publication, the conversation explores key historical milestones, including early innovations, the 1972 Medicare amendment, and the rise of corporatized dialysis care. Together, they examine how these forces have shaped trainee perceptions, workforce recruitment, and the identity of nephrology today. The episode concludes with a forward-looking discussion on how the field can refocus priorities, embr...
2026-01-2340 min
Kidney CommuteAdolescence to Adult Care TransitionNavigating the transition from pediatric to adult kidney transplant care is one of the most pivotal and vulnerable periods for young patients. In this episode of the Kidney Commute, an interdisciplinary panel of nephrology, social work, nursing, pharmacy experts, and a kidney transplant recipient explore the medical, psychological, and social complexities that shape a successful transition. The discussion addresses readiness for independence, medication and insurance changes, adherence challenges, family dynamics, and coordinated handoffs between pediatric and adult teams. Through real-world insights and practical strategies, this episode highlights approaches to support continuity of care, protect graft survival, and empower young...
2026-01-2031 min
Kidney CommutePitstop: UromodulinIn this Kidney Commute: Pitstop episode, host Anna Gaddy, MD, FASN, FNKF, is joined by Kaice LaFavers, PhD, and Pranav Garimella, MBBS, MPH, to explore uromodulin. They discuss its role in infection defense, immune modulation, AKI and sepsis, genetic insights, and evolving methods to study its multiple forms. A concise, science driven look at why uromodulin matters in kidney health.
2025-12-1332 min
Kidney CommutePitstop: Part 2: Obesity in the Nephrology Clinic – Treatment and Management PrinciplesEffective management of obesity in patients with CKD requires a holistic, interprofessional approach. In part 2 of this episode, the conversation continues with translating the evolving evidence into practical guidance for nephrology teams. Experts review the importance of a person-centered approach integrating lifestyle interventions, pharmacologic therapies, and surgical options with a focus on safety, efficacy, and kidney-related outcomes. The discussion emphasizes how members of the nephrology care team can collaborate to personalize treatment, address appetite and nutrition concerns, and help patients achieve meaningful weight loss without compromising kidney health. Tune in for actionable insights and strategies to translate emerging science...
2025-12-0131 min
Kidney CommutePitstop: Part 1: Obesity in the Nephrology Clinic – Risks, Roles, and Real-World StrategiesObesity and chronic kidney disease (CKD) are deeply interconnected as each condition increases the risk and severity of the other. In part 1 of this episode, our interprofessional panel of experts explores the science behind this bidirectional relationship and the epidemiologic data underscoring their connection. Listeners will gain insight into the underlying pathophysiology, including the roles of inflammation, altered kidney hemodynamics, and lipotoxicity. Through practical discussion and dissection of the literature, this episode highlights the importance of recognizing obesity as both a cause and consequence of CKD, and the crucial role nephrology professionals play in interrupting this cycle early.
2025-12-0124 min
Kidney CommutePitstop: Can a Nephrologist Say "No" to Dialysis?When should dialysis be withheld at the end of life—and who makes that decision? Join host Raphy Rosen with experts Drs. Alvin Moss and Christine Corbett as they explore the ethical, clinical, and emotional challenges the nephrology team face when considering “no” to dialysis. Learn how shared decision-making, time-limited trials, and compassionate communication can help align care with patient values and improve end-of-life outcomes.
Host: Raphy Rosen, MD, FASN, FNKF
Panelists: Christine Corbett, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, CNN-NP, ACHPN, FNKF and Alvin H. Moss, MD, FACP, FAAHPM
2025-10-1337 min
Kidney CommutePitstop: Applying eGFR Trends to Clinical Practice when Treating Patients with IgANIn this episode, we explore the evolving role of surrogate endpoints in the management of IgA nephropathy (IgAN), with a particular focus on the significance of estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Of the completed Phase 3 trials in IgAN, one used time-weighted average eGFR, an area under the curve-based measure that reflects the average change in eGFR from baseline over a specified period, in this case, over the full 2-year study period. The other trial used total eGFR slope to describe the overall rate of change over 2 years. But what do these endpoints mean outside the setting of a clinical...
2025-10-0231 min
Kidney CommuteBenefits of Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT)Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects more than 35 million U.S. adults, yet only a small percentage see a dietitian before starting dialysis. In this episode of Kidney Commute, experts and a patient share how Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) can slow CKD progression, improve quality of life, and support patients in making sustainable dietary changes. Listeners will also gain practical insights on insurance coverage, referral pathways, and strategies to expand access to renal nutrition care.
2025-09-2243 min
Kidney CommutePitstop: The Nephrologist’s Perspective in Evaluation and Management of Localized Renal Masses: Core Curriculum 2025In this Kidney Commute: Pitstop episode, host Dr. Osama El Shamy speaks with Drs. Susie Hu and Anthony Chang about the first AJKD Core Curriculum update since 2016 on localized renal masses. They unpack risk factors, incidental findings, treatment strategies, and the vital role nephrologists play—alongside urology and pathology—in preserving kidney function and improving patient care.
AJKD Article: https://www.ajkd.org/article/S0272-63862500973-4/fulltext
2025-09-1129 min
Kidney CommutePitstop: Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease: Core Curriculum 2025Join host Dr. Sam Kant and experts Dr. Craig Gordon and Dr. Pranav Garimella as they break down the latest AJKD Core Curriculum on Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD). This episode explores genetics, imaging, prognostic tools, lifestyle strategies, and management, offering practical, evidence-based insights to guide kidney care professionals.
AJKD Article: Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease: Core Curriculum 2025 - American Journal of Kidney Diseases
2025-08-2736 minKidney CommuteVascular Access and Home HemodialysisIn this Kidney Commute episode, host Dr. Nupur Gupta is joined by Dr. Vandana Dua Niyyar, Cheryl Cress, RN, CNN, and home dialysis patient Jane DeMeis with her care partner Joe. They explore challenges and solutions in vascular access for home hemodialysis, including access types, self-cannulation, patient education, and real-world impacts. This interprofessional discussion blends clinical expertise and lived experience to improve patient outcomes.
This episode offers CME/CE credit to eligible listeners through August 12, 2027. If you'd like to claim credit, please go to kidney.org/podcast-CE to register for this episode and complete requirements.
2025-08-1229 minKidney CommutePitstop: Continuous Kidney Replacement Therapies from the Core Curriculum 2025This episode delves into the updated AJKD Core Curriculum on Continuous Kidney Replacement Therapies (CKRT). Host Anna Gaddy is joined by authors J. Pedro Teixeira, Swapnil Hiremath and Edward Clark, as they explore crucial topics like the practical advantages and disadvantages of CRRT, mechanisms of hemodynamic instability with KRT, and strategies for de-escalation. This episode provides valuable insights into the evolving world of kidney care and addresses key considerations for nephrology professionals. The full article can be found on the AJKD website here: https://www.ajkd.org/article/S0272-63862401120-X/fulltext
2025-07-2945 min
Kidney CommutePitstop: Active Medical Care Without DialysisIn this episode of the Kidney Commute: Pitstop* series, host, Raphy Rosen is joined by Christine Corbett and Alvin Moss to discuss active medical care without dialysis.
Host: Raphy Rosen, MD, FNKF
Guests: Christine Corbett, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, CNN-NP, ACHPN, FNKF & Alvin Moss, MD, FACP, FAAHPM
Please visit https://www.kidney.org/podcasts/kidney-commute to view additional resources.
*The Kidney Commute: Pitstop series was previously known as the NKF Life as a Nephrology Professional podcast.
2025-06-0934 minKidney CommuteRolling Stones: How to Prevent and Treat Kidney StonesDiscover expert insights on kidney stone prevention and management in this episode featuring a physician, dietitian, pharmacist, and patient. Learn about key kidney stone risk factors and explore how dietary adjustments can reduce stone recurrence. Experts discuss fluid intake strategies, medication considerations, surgical indications, and even unconventional questions about roller coasters’ impact on stone passage. Tune in for actionable advice, myth-busting discussions, and interprofessional perspectives.
This episode offers CME/CE credit to eligible listeners. If you'd like to claim credit, please go to kidney.org/podcast-CE to register for this episode and complete requirements.
2025-05-2143 min
Kidney CommutePalliative Care and Conservative Care in CKDPalliative care, or treatment focused on symptom management and quality of life, is an important and often overlooked aspect of care for people with kidney disease. Similarly, conservative treatment of advanced kidney disease, or medical management without dialysis or transplantation, is not well understood by patients and care providers alike. In this episode of the Kidney Commute, our interprofessional team discusses these two important aspects of kidney disease care.
This episode offers CME/CE credit to eligible listeners. If you'd like to claim credit, please go to kidney.org/podcast-CE to register for this episode and complete re...
2025-04-1627 minKidney CommuteOnconephrology: Cancer and the KidneysCancer is the leading cause of death in the world, associated with high morbidity and mortality. This episode discusses how kidneys are affected by cancer and its treatment. Panelists discuss diagnosing and managing complex kidney problems, such as acute kidney injury associated with cancer and novel oncological therapies, as well as summarize drug dosing in patients with cancer. Thanks for joining us on this ride of the Kidney Commute.
This episode offers CME/CE credit to eligible listeners. If you'd like to claim credit, please go to kidney.org/podcast-CE to register for this episode and complete re...
2025-02-2439 minKidney Commute2025 CMS Updates for the Nephrology Team2025 will bring BIG changes to the dialysis world. As of Jan 01, oral phosphorus binders will be part of the dialysis payment bundle, out-of-pocket costs for prescription medications are changing in amounts and payment models, and coverage for certain dental services is expanding, to name a few. In this episode we will explore how these changes will likely impact patients, nephrologists, and dialysis units. Thanks for joining us on this ride of the Kidney Commute!
This episode offers CME/CE credit to eligible listeners. If you'd like to claim credit, please go to kidney.org/podcast-CE to register for...
2025-01-1744 minKidney CommuteCulturally Sensitive Approaches to Navigating Living DonationPatients and care team members often encounter challenges faced by individuals from different cultural backgrounds regarding access to kidney transplantation. This episode explores the impact of a culturally sensitive approach to living donation. Panelists will discuss resources to assist with approaching these conversations effectively while taking into consideration patient-specific factors such as culture, ethnicity, language and religious beliefs. Thanks for joining us on this ride of the Kidney Commute.
This episode offers CME/CE credit to eligible listeners. If you'd like to claim credit, please go to kidney.org/podcast-CE to register for this episode and complete re...
2025-01-0850 minKidney CommutePotassium and CKDDo all patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) need potassium restriction? In this episode we will explore the current guidelines of potassium intake in different CKD populations. Apart from the guidelines, we will explore the potassium concentration in foods and some tips and tricks for counseling patients. After listening to this episode, you will be in a better position to talk to patients about their potassium needs. Thanks for joining us on this ride of the Kidney Commute.
This episode offers CME/CE credit to eligible listeners. If you'd like to claim credit, go to kidney.org...
2024-11-1942 minKidney CommuteReducing ASCVD Risk in CKDPeople with kidney disease are at an increased risk for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, or ASCVD, and cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in people with kidney disease. In this episode of the Kidney Commute our interprofessional panel of experts discusses what ASCVD is, how patients can be evaluated for their ASCVD risk, and strategies for managing and reducing this risk. We cover risk calculators, pharmaceutical options, communication strategies, and areas where we can all work together to educate patients about risk. Thank you for joining us on this ride of The Kidney Commute!
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2024-10-3046 minKidney CommuteGLP1 & CKDIn this episode of the Kidney Commute podcast, panelists delve into the role of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists in chronic kidney disease. The discussion explores the mechanisms of GLP-1 receptor agonists, their benefits in managing both kidney disease and related comorbidities like diabetes and cardiovascular disease, and the latest evidence supporting their use. Panelists also address practical challenges faced by both patients and providers.
Click here to claim CE Credit.
2024-09-0624 minKidney CommuteExploring Solo Home Hemodialysis - A Team SportHome hemodialysis (HHD) is hemodialysis that is performed at home entirely by a patient or with assistance from a care partner. Solo HHD is when a person performs their own hemodialysis at home without a care partner present. Solo HHD can be challenging for patients and requires the whole care team coming together with the patient to develop an individualized approach for each patient in order to increase their likelihood of success. This episode will discuss common safety concerns and other barriers to solo HHD encountered by patients and offer some potential strategies for overcoming these.
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2024-06-1131 minKidney CommuteUpdates in Glomerulonephritis and Pre-eclampsia in CKD PatientsJoin our team in a discussion about diagnosis and treatment of glomerulonephritis, a common cause of kidney failure. We explore new treatment options and ways to engage patients in conversations about these options. Additionally, we unpack how to diagnose and monitor glomerulonephritis. This discussion also includes challenges faced both by patients and providers with regard to glomerulonephritis, especially for women of child-bearing age.
Click here to claim CE credits.
2024-04-3035 minKidney CommuteThe Role of APP on the Nephrology TeamThe management of patients living with kidney disease is evolving as the complexity of patient care evolves. Join us as we discuss the team of clinicians who are involved in the care of patients with kidney disease, including nephrologists and advanced practice providers (APPs) - advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) and physician assistants (PAs). This episode will review the roles of each provider type and what each brings to the team as well as the patients. It will also highlight the strengths of team-based care as well as what patients and their families can expect from an APP during...
2024-03-2936 minKidney CommuteNew Year, New You! – Leveraging Goal Setting in CKD PracticeMany people start the year full of hope and ready to start anew. Join our team in a discussion about the best times to implement new goals relative to CKD. We also explore home dialysis modalities and ways to engage patients in conversations about this option. Additionally, we unpack how and when to implement exercise programs and include tips on tackling social isolation. We hope you enjoy this podcast as you continue in this new year.
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2024-02-2931 minKidney CommuteVitamin and Supplement Use in CKDJoin us for a robust discussion surrounding the ever-growing field of vitamins and supplements. This episode dives into the indications and contraindications for people with all stages of chronic kidney disease, including those on dialysis as well as those who have had a transplant. The panelists will also review the potential drug interactions and side effect profiles of the most commonly inquired about supplements. Which vitamins may be appropriate and when will be included in this episode as well.
Click here to claim CE credits.
2024-01-3141 minKidney CommuteHolidays and CKD Part IIHaving a chronic illness can be difficult for anyone. Patients with Kidney disease have to restrict their diet and also balance out restrictions associated with other medical illnesses. Considering diet and fluid restrictions while planning family meals can be physically and emotionally taxing. In this episode, you will gain insight into the patient experience of planning around the holidays and professional teams knowledge in providing the best education for patients and the best holiday outcomes.
Click HERE to claim CE Credit.
2023-11-3021 minKidney CommuteHypertension and PregnancyHypertensive disorders of pregnancy impact many pregnancies and are associated with significant maternal and fetal morbidity and even mortality. In this episode of the kidney commute, we are joined by a maternal fetal medicine (high risk obstetrics) expert, as well as a nephrologist, pharmacist, and patient to discuss these disorders. Patients with kidney disease are at elevated risk of developing hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and it is important that members of the kidney community be able to recognize and treat these conditions, as well as to know when to refer for more help.
Click HERE to claim CE...
2023-10-0338 minKidney CommuteOptimizing Kidney Health Care for LGBTQIA+ PatientsThe National Kidney Foundation is excited bring to you an important conversation about awareness, sensitivity and understanding of the LGBTQ+ community. In this episode, we will discuss how the use of appropriate intake forms, use of pronouns and having open conversations can create an inclusive healthcare environment and create a shared decision making environment. Participants will receive education on what considerations should be made when exploring gender affirmation hormone therapy or surgery in their patient population. Gender-affirming hormone therapy can be taken as pills, patches, gels, or by injection. Hormone therapy can be given alone or with preparation for g...
2023-07-1135 minKidney CommuteWorking Towards TransplantIn this episode, we discuss the process of working towards a kidney transplant. Exploring the steps from the perspective of the patient and the different members of the healthcare team. We find out when a referral for transplant is appropriate, as well as the testing required before a patient is deemed a good candidate for a kidney transplant.
Click HERE to claim CE Credit.
2023-05-2533 minKidney CommuteLiving Donation and TransplantTransplant is the preferred modality for many people with end-stage renal disease. There are approximately 100,000 people waiting for a kidney transplant, with wait times exceeding 10 years in some regions. Join us on this ride as we discuss ways to find living donors as an alternative to a deceased donor kidney transplant. We will discuss the experience of living donors through the work up phase, the surgical phase, and throughout the emotional and physical healing phase of this life-saving gift.
Click HERE to claim CE Credit.
2023-05-2339 minKidney CommuteSexuality and Kidney DiseaseSexual dysfunction (SD) is incredibly common in patients with kidney disease. In women, SD is classified as sexual interest/arousal disorder, orgasmic disorder, and genitopelvic pain/penetration disorder. For men, SD is classified as erectile disorder, hypoactive disorder, premature ejaculation, and delayed ejaculation. Studies have shown rates of SD as high as 92% of women with CKD and 70-85% of men, with increasing rates as kidney disease progresses. In this episode, our interdisciplinary team discusses why SD is so prevalent in patients with CKD, how it is discussed and diagnosed, some treatment options, and our thoughts on how to improve...
2023-02-2837 minKidney CommuteKidney Disease and the HolidaysHaving a chronic illness can be difficult for anyone. ESRD requires pre-planning to include 3 or more weekly dialysis sessions while traveling. Considering diet and fluid restrictions while planning family meals can be physically and emotionally taxing. In this episode, you will gain insight into the patient experience of planning around the holidays and professional teams knowledge in providing the best education for patients and the best holiday outcomes.
Click HERE to take the pre-test, then return to claim to claim CE Credit.
2022-12-0820 minKidney CommuteDepression and Dialysis- Reviewing the ASCEND StudyThis episode discusses depression in people on dialysis in light of the PCORI-funded ASCEND study. Major depressive disorder is four times more common in people undergoing long-term dialysis than in the general population and is associated with greater non-adherence, higher healthcare utilization, poorer quality of life, and higher mortality. A panel discussion puts these results in perspective and discusses next steps in the treatment of depression from the vantage point of the study team.
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2022-10-2430 minKidney CommuteTransitions of Care (AKI/CKD to Dialysis)This episode discusses transitions of care for kidney patients. This includes patients who had never had any kidney issues who present to the hospital with acute kidney injury, some of whom require dialysis - at least temporarily. It includes patients who have known chronic kidney disease who crash into dialysis, as well as outpatient chronic kidney disease patients who are transitioning to outpatient dialysis.
These transitions can be hard for patients to undertake. It is our role as healthcare providers to understand their struggle and familiarize ourselves with the perspectives of the different players in patient care, a...
2022-09-2723 minKidney CommuteBreastfeedingBecoming a new parent can be overwhelming. A major difficulty facing new parents is determining how best to feed their new baby, and when you have kidney disease there are additional risks and benefits regarding breastfeeding versus formula feeding. In this episode of the Kidney Commute we are joined by experts who will address some of the unique issues facing new parents with kidney disease when it comes to breastfeeding, including the most up to date recommendations and safety of various medications to the breastfeeding infant. Given the current formula shortages, this is a very pertinent conversation that many...
2022-09-0941 minKidney CommuteDialysis OptionsIn this episode, the interprofessional panel will discuss the various treatment modalities available to ESKD patients. The team will outline treatment options, pros and cons of treatment options for different patients, and how treatment planning can improve patient outcomes. Hear a dietitian and social worker review the dietary and psychosocial implications of different treatment modalities.
Click HERE to claim CE Credit.
2022-07-1543 minKidney CommuteSalt Intake and CKDIn this episode we discuss salt intake in the setting of chronic kidney disease. We start our discussion defining salt vs sodium and further discuss the physiology and outcomes of a high-sodium diet. We also review the guidelines and some helpful tips on implementing them. Understanding that patient challenges to a low-sodium diet might be present, we hear from our multidisciplinary panel on recommendations to overcome these problems. The episode finishes with a review, and discussion of the beneficial outcomes of successful implementation of a low-sodium diet.
Click HERE to claim CE Credit.
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2022-06-1736 minKidney CommuteReproductive Health after TransplantIn this episode of the Kidney Commute will explore the issues that are specific to women with kidney disease who undergo kidney transplant. Our interprofessional team includes a physician, Dr. Silvi Shah, who explores topics such as family planning after transplant, the impact that transplant has on fertility, and graft monitoring during pregnancy. Amanda Trinsey, who has a kidney transplant, discusses her experiences navigating pregnancy after transplant. Lisa Coscia offers information from a nursing perspective, as well as highlights the resources available from Transplant Pregnancy Registry International. Heather Hames highlights medication changes and monitoring that are key to a...
2022-05-2443 minKidney CommuteHealth LiteracyLimited or low Health literacy impacts about 80 million Americans. It is associated with poor health outcomes and upwards of $236 billion in health care costs. Health literacy affects everyone, and most negatively effects communities of color. It is important to realize that limited health literacy is not always associated with education level and regardless of education, everyone should be evaluated. In this episode, you will learn how providers can influence health literacy and implement evaluation and intervention strategies in their practice settings. You will hear a patient account of the impression each individual has on improving health literacy in patients....
2022-05-091h 04Kidney CommuteFrailty in CKD and ESRDFrailty syndrome is a multi-system impairment resulting in decreased reserve and resistance to stressors. For those living with renal disease and pursuing transplant this syndrome is measured by many transplant centers as frailty can impact post-transplant outcomes. Join us as we explore more about frailty risk factors, how it is measured, its impact, and how the multi-disciplinary team can address components leading to frailty.
2022-04-0143 minKidney CommuteThe Importance of Immunization in Chronic Kidney Disease: How Can We Help Patients?Infection is a major cause of morbidity and mortality for patients with kidney disease, and vaccines are the cornerstone of preventing infection. Nephrologists often provide general health care to their patients so the kidney health team is well suited to address what is typically a primary practitioners area. It’s a timely topic, as we are in the midst of pandemic, however the discussion in this episode addresses vaccines beyond COVID 19.
2022-02-2238 minKidney CommuteWomen’s Health and the KidneyThis episode is the first in a series of three that will focus on women's health and the kidney. This discussion focuses on the importance of interprofessional team communication and implementing shared decision making, as well as using an individualized approach when it comes to understanding the preferences of women with kidney disease. Amanda, a kidney disease patient and mother of three, discusses her experience navigating her care with her health team.
2022-01-1832 minKidney CommuteProtein in the Diet of CKD PatientsThis episode discusses a topic important to all kidney patients: protein intake in the diet. It's a question asked often by patients, and can be difficult to address by providers. Recommendations change based on a patient's individual health situation, and the support of the interprofessional team can make these conversations easier to approach. The panel provides a basic overview of protein, recommendations to approaching patient education on protein intake, and emphasizes the importance of the kidney health team working together to help patients navigate this tough question.
2022-01-1828 minKidney CommuteIntroduction to the Kidney Health TeamThis episode provides an introduction to the kidney health team through an exploration of the roles and responsibilities of key members. Panelists discuss how the team can have healthy and productive interactions, and how the kidney health team can best work collaboratively with each other and patients to help navigate patient care and achieve optimal outcomes.
2022-01-1844 min