To examine the relationships between pre-dialysis care and access type with transplant referral, evaluation, and waitlisting in patients with kidney failure.
Analyzed data from adults with kidney failure initiating dialysis.
Assessed types of pre-dialysis care received by patients.
Evaluated referral and evaluation processes for kidney transplant.
More than half of adults initiated dialysis in non-optimal ways.
Reduced likelihood of transplant referral among those with poor pre-dialysis care.
Identified specific care practices that correlate with improved transplant waitlisting outcomes.
Abstract
More than half of U.S. adults with kidney failure initiate dialysis in a minimal or non-optimal way leading to reduced likelihood of transplant referral and evaluation.