News & Comment

All patients with kidney disease have the right to have a say in their own clinical care, the provision of health services and research into kidney disease. Patient empowerment and advocacy, especially for those whose views are seldom heard, can be enhanced by working together in communities.

Treatment of chronic kidney disease requires a comprehensive approach including universal access to early diagnosis and to medications that can slow disease progression. Such equitable access is not only an ethical requirement but can also reduce the financial and human costs of advancing kidney and cardiovascular disease.

Overcoming barriers to deliver high-quality care requires an assessment of the contribution of each barrier within a local context. Tools to identify early disease, knowledge of best therapies, access to care providers and medications, and an accountable and integrated health-care system are essential elements of quality care. Education of patients, providers and policy makers in conjunction with advocacy efforts and national policy frameworks are required to deliver high-quality care worldwide.

Many countries worldwide, particularly those with low or lower-middle incomes, do not have enough nephrologists to provide health services for patients with kidney disease. Increasing training opportunities, improving job satisfaction and using new technologies and advances in artificial intelligence could help to increase the nephrology workforce and improve patient outcomes.