International care models for chronic kidney disease: methods and economics--United States

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Health Services Research
• Public Health

Background:

• Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects over 8 million adults in the US, with many having stages 3 or 4.
• Evidence supports the benefits of focused interventions for CKD patients.
• There is a lack of published data on the cost-effectiveness of these interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine current models of care for chronic kidney disease (CKD) in the United States.
• To highlight the emergence of comprehensive CKD care within different healthcare structures.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing healthcare models for CKD management in the US.
• Analysis of care delivery within vertically integrated health programs and managed care plans.

Main Results:

• Vertically integrated health programs are developing comprehensive CKD care models.
• Managed care health plans are implementing CKD disease management programs, either internally or through partnerships.

Conclusions:

• Despite limited cost-effectiveness data, various CKD care models are being adopted in the US.
• Integrated health systems and managed care plans represent key emerging models for delivering CKD care.