Transition Between Different Renal Replacement Modalities: Gaps in Knowledge and Care-The Integrated Research...

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Public Health
• Healthcare Management

Background:

• End-stage kidney disease (ESKD) necessitates renal replacement therapy (RRT).
• Integrated care models focus on patient pathways, emphasizing transitions between RRT modalities.
• Limited data exists on the epidemiology and patient/provider perspectives of RRT transitions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review existing literature on transitions between RRT modalities.
• To introduce the INTErnational Group Research Assessing Transition Effects in Dialysis (INTEGRATED) initiative.
• To outline a research plan for quantifying transition epidemiology and qualitative aspects.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of RRT transitions.
• Description of the INTEGRATED initiative's background and scope.
• Presentation of a proposed international research plan.

Main Results:

• Existing literature on RRT transitions is limited.
• Poor coordination during transitions is linked to morbidity and mortality.
• Patient, caregiver, and health professional perspectives are under-documented.

Conclusions:

• Optimizing transition strategies between RRT modalities is essential for integrated care.
• Further research is needed to address the epidemiology and qualitative aspects of RRT transitions.
• The INTEGRATED initiative seeks to fill this knowledge gap through international collaboration.