Optimal Care to Promote Flourishing: Articulating the Purpose of Pediatric Nephrology

Pediatric nephrology is at a pivotal moment. As treatment advances have improved survival and clinical outcomes, families and clinicians increasingly call for a more holistic view of what it means to care well for children with kidney disease. Professional society mission statements, which emphasize a commitment to "optimal care for children with kidney disease," offer a foundation upon which to articulate that broader vision. In this perspective, we discuss what we think optimal care is not-an exclusive focus on cure, survival, and adult outcomes-and what optimal care is: promoting the flourishing of children with kidney disease and their families. Rooted in bioethics and gaining traction in medicine, a shift to promoting flourishing has significant implications for pediatric nephrology in clinical care, research and advocacy, and professionalism. To navigate this critical juncture in pediatric nephrology and improve the outcomes most important to patients, families, and clinicians, optimal care must center on flourishing. Now is the time to expand our focus from kidney disease well-treated to lives well-lived.