A narrative review of peer support barriers and facilitators in kidney care

Patients with chronic kidney disease often experience emotional/mental challenges and benefit from peer support, as it provides insight/information from others with the same condition. Previous studies show it is effective in improving health outcomes and aids in treatment decisions.

There is low peer support uptake among patients with chronic kidney disease in the United Kingdom and staff do not utilise peer support services fully. Few studies within the United Kingdom have focused on peer support barriers/facilitators, so this narrative review aimed to understand them from staff and patient perspectives.

A comprehensive search strategy and inclusion/exclusion criteria were applied with a two-step process of article selection employed using two reviewers. Thematic analysis was applied.

Five articles were included and six themes emerged. Low referrals and difficulty matching were staff barriers; concern regarding the relationship dynamic and the format/delivery were patient barriers. Promotion of the service aided the uptake from staff, while patients valued inclusivity.

Increased promotion of peer support benefits through training/awareness may improve staff referrals and there should be greater exposure nationally. A flexible format is essential to ensure ample opportunity for access.

This review highlights the current literature on peer support barriers/facilitators. Further study is needed to evidence which approaches best overcome staff- and patient-barriers.