Peer support for renal patients: the Patient Visitor Program.

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Public Health
• Patient Support Programs

Background:

• The Patient Visitor Program was established in 1977 to provide peer support for renal patients.
• Some trained volunteers remain active, offering support in their local areas.
• Volunteer availability is influenced by the geographic distribution (urban/rural) of new renal patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the Patient Visitor Program's role in supporting newly diagnosed renal patients in Iowa.
• To highlight the program's long-standing provision of peer support.
• To assess the program's impact on both patients and volunteers.

Main Methods:

• The program connects newly diagnosed renal patients with trained volunteers.
• Volunteer engagement and patient participation are key components.
• Program reach is tracked based on patient needs and geographic factors.

Main Results:

• The Patient Visitor Program serves all newly diagnosed renal patients in Iowa.
• Most new renal patients utilize the volunteer support.
• Volunteers report positive experiences from interactions with new patients.

Conclusions:

• The Patient Visitor Program is a cost-effective method for supplementing care for renal patients across Iowa.
• The program demonstrates the value of peer support in chronic illness management.
• The model could be adapted for patients with other chronic conditions.