Home dialysis puts you in charge

For some people, doing dialysis at home can offer benefits over going to a clinic. But too many people are not being told that home dialysis could be an option for them. Be your own strongest advocate and talk to your doctor to find out whether doing your dialysis at home could be right for you. 

Empower yourself 

Exploring home dialysis begins with you

Learn more from our Health Equity Coalition member Home Dialyzors United

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  • Ask about home dialysis. If you are in the later stages of kidney disease and at risk for kidney failure, ask your doctor to explain all your treatment options, including home dialysis. 

  • Get a second opinion. If you are currently doing dialysis in a clinic, tell your doctor you want to be considered for home dialysis. If they turn you down, ask for a second opinion. You can also ask to talk with a social worker to address the reasons you were turned down. 

  • Involve your health care team. Talk with them about ways to meet the requirements for home dialysis. For example, your social worker may suggest ways to make space in your home for the dialysis equipment you need.  

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Home dialysis is an equity issue 

With home dialysis, you are in charge of your treatments, which means you can make your dialysis schedule work for your lifestyle. For example, you may want to dialyze overnight while you sleep so you can go to work in the morning. With home dialysis, you dialyze more often than in the dialysis clinic — resulting in better health outcomes, fewer side effects and more time with family and friends.

Learn the myths and facts about home dialysis
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Assistance with insurance 

Get help paying for dialysis treatments 

If you have kidney failure but are unable to afford the cost of your health insurance premiums, the American Kidney Fund's Health Insurance Premium Program (HIPP) may be able to help. HIPP helps address health equity challenges facing people from communities of color and low-income households. About two-thirds of people who receive help from HIPP are people of color. 

Home dialysis resources 

Understanding Your Home Dialysis Options 

In September 2022, AKF came together with Home Dialyzors United (HDU), a nonprofit advocating on behalf of the home dialyzor dialysis community, to host a virtual summit. This video explores the differences between in-center and home dialysis, and the pros and cons of each.

Ready, set, take action 

In spite of the challenges, it only takes one person at a time — armed with the right tools and knowledge — to take lifesaving action. The American Kidney Fund provides the help and support that you need to join the fight for health equity.