Kidney Care Resources & Support

For people who have chronic kidney disease (CKD), it can be difficult to adjust to life with dialysis. At Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, we’re here to help you throughout your journey with support and information.

A healthy diet can help prolong kidney function in people with kidney disease or other conditions that affect the kidneys. At Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, we offer medical nutrition counseling for our kidney dialysis patients. Ask your physician for a referral to one of our dietitians who specializes in nutrition services for patients with CKD.

Cooking healthy meals at home is a great way to control the amount of protein, sodium, phosphorus, potassium, fluid, calories, vitamins, and minerals you consume. Try these tips for eating right with CKD to help you achieve the proper nutrition levels while undergoing dialysis.

When you start dialysis, facing challenges can be overwhelming, no matter how much you’ve prepared. You may find it helpful to talk with someone other than your family and friends.

Our social workers are ready to help you and can discuss all kinds of topics, including:

• Arranging for dialysis while traveling
• Anxiety about treatment
• Feelings of loss and grief
• Finding services you may be eligible for
• Health insurance options, including prescription drug coverage
• Job issues
• Marriage and family problems
• Physical changes and limitations
• Self-esteem and body image
• Transportation

You may be concerned about how to pay for your dialysis services. Our staff can help you find the most affordable health insurance option to help you pay for dialysis, including Medicaid, Medicare, Medicare supplement plans, and private health insurance.

Learn more about our social services and how we can help you cope with the challenges of CKD.

• National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases
• National Kidney Foundation
• Renal Support Network
• National Kidney Disease Education Program

Our team provides exceptional kidney care to help improve your quality of life.