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Current State of the Workforce in Nephrology
Eleanor Lederer1, Jonathan Lebowitz2
1Medical Service, Dallas North Texas VA, Dallas, TX; Department of Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern School of Medicine, Dallas, TX.
Advances in Chronic Kidney Disease
|November 2, 2020
Summary
Nephrology faces workforce challenges due to declining resident interest and issues like gender/ethnic disparities. Innovative care models and addressing these obstacles are crucial for managing rising chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) patient numbers.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Healthcare Workforce Development
- Public Health
Background:
- Rising prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end-stage kidney disease (ESKD).
- Declining interest in nephrology as a career among internal medicine residents.
- Emergence of integrated healthcare delivery models for CKD patient care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine challenges and opportunities in developing an optimal nephrology workforce.
- To identify key components for successful integrated healthcare delivery models in nephrology.
- To address factors hindering workforce development and patient care.
Main Methods:
- Review of current trends in nephrology career interest.
- Analysis of integrated healthcare delivery models for CKD.
- Identification of workforce-related obstacles including diversity and compensation.
Main Results:
- Nephrology faces a declining interest from residents, exacerbating workforce shortages.
- Integrated care models offer innovative approaches to CKD patient management.
- Significant obstacles include gender/ethnic disparities, compensation issues, and work-life balance perceptions.
Conclusions:
- Addressing workforce challenges is critical for managing the increasing burden of CKD and ESKD.
- Successful implementation of integrated care models requires defining roles for kidney care professionals.
- Concerted efforts are needed to overcome workforce obstacles and ensure optimal patient care.
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