National Kidney Month

In observance of National Kidney Month and World Kidney Day in March, the American Kidney Fund hosted its 1st annual Kidney Health Fair on the Hill and its 2nd annual World Kidney Day Advocate Training Fly-In to raise awareness among Members of Congress and the Capitol Hill community about kidney disease and its risks. Read More.

CMS Eliminates the Transition Adjuster

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) implemented a new payment system for dialysis care in January, 2011.  As part of that process, CMS instituted a 3.1 percent rate reduction (‘transition adjuster’) on reimbursements to dialysis facilities in 2011. Read More.

CMS Maintains Coverage of Anemia Drugs

On March 16, in response to a public request, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) announced it would not change its coverage policy for ESA (erythropoietin stimulating agent, also known as EPO) use in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), including those on dialysis, until further analysis is completed. Read More.

Kidney Caucus Adds Leadership

Thanks to efforts of the kidney care community and patient advocates, two Republican Members of Congress have stepped up to serve as leaders of the Congressional Kidney Caucus. This is great news for the kidney care community because we can now begin to engage the Caucus to be active on legislation and issues affecting individuals with kidney disease. Read More.
 

AKF Policies and Issues

AKF will continue efforts to promote kidney disease awareness and advocate on issues that impact patients with CKD and on dialysis. Read More.

AKF and AAKP Partner to Advocate for Patients

The American Kidney Fund frequently partners with fellow kidney patient organizations, working together to advocate on behalf of kidney patients. 

On Monday, June 6, 2011, the American Association of Kidney Patients (AAKP), in partnership with the Renal Physicians Association (RPA), will hold meetings with Congressional offices in Washington, D.C. to help present the patient point of view to representatives in Congress. AAKP has reached out to the American Kidney Fund in search of volunteers to travel to Washington, D.C.  If you are from the following states and want to participate in this effort, please contact the Government Relations team at AKF at  (800) 638-8299.  States targeted:   Arizona, Connecticut, Georgia, Louisiana, Nevada, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, and West Virginia.  AAKP will reimburse those selected for airline fares and hotel accommodations, and all those selected will be given training prior to visiting Congressional offices. Read More.

Upcoming Events

Steps that Count
Fundraising Walk and Kidney Health Event
June 11, 2011
Nationals Park
Washington, DC
Click here for more information and to register.
Click here for a list of upcoming kidney health screenings.