News & Events
Discover new information and educational offerings that we provide. Explore our newsletters, blogs and upcoming webinars/conference calls.
Contents:
Living Well with Kidney Disease
Velma Scantlebury MD, FACS, GCM, DPC Education Center Health Care Consultant In the United States, there are over 35 million persons who have chronic kidney disease, which accounts for one in every seven adults. Unfortunately, many millions also have chronic kidney disease and are not aware of the diagnosis. However, having chronic kidney disease may mean having to alter some of your lifestyle habits to protect your kidney function, but many of us must make sacrifices to stay healthy: limiting fats and high calorie drinks, increasing vegetables and healthy greens, and engaging in regular physical activity. However, with hypertension and diabetes being the leading causes of kidney disease, it is imperative that these [...]
DPC’s 2025 State Advocacy Wins
Elizabeth Lively, DPC Eastern Region Advocacy Director Pamela Zielske, DPC Western Region Advocacy Director DPC achieved key state wins for ESRD patients as several states passed Medigap premium protections during the 2025 session, with legislation in additional states still in play. In addition, several states passed “birthday rule” bills, which aim to allow more flexibility and patient choice for individuals with Medicare Supplement plans by providing a window for Medigap enrollees to change their plans without medical underwriting. As insurers price their plans differently, enrollees may find a more affordable premium for the same plan from a different insurer. Legislation providing Medigap premium protections for under-age 65 Medicare-eligible ESRD patients remains [...]
Empowerment in My Voice
Quiana Bishop, DPC Board President When my father was diagnosed with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD), our family stepped into unfamiliar territory. We didn't know what it meant, how to help, or even what questions to ask. We learned fast – but we learned through fear, frustration, and love. Today, I share our journey not just to honor him, but to help others avoid that helplessness and find hope sooner. My mother became the caregiver overnight. One minute she was his partner; the next, she was managing medications, appointments, and emotions that none of us had language for. The strength she showed was quiet but immense. My dad wasn't one to share details – [...]
One Day at a Time: Life Beyond Kidney Failure
Adrian Miller, DPC Board Member Thirteen years ago, I thought my story was over before it really began. I was walking with my brother on Super Bowl Sunday in February 2012, following our tradition of visiting neighborhood bars before heading to our parents' house. But that day, I couldn't even make it a block without stopping to catch my breath. I was gasping for air like I'd just run a marathon. Deep down, I knew something was seriously wrong. The next morning, I asked my sister to take me to the emergency room. When they checked my blood pressure – 260 over 170 – I was on the verge of a stroke. By [...]
September is National Sepsis Awareness Month
SEPSIS? What is sepsis? What are the signs and symptoms of sepsis? Is sepsis fatal? Sepsis is a life-threatening infection that can be fatal. Dialysis patients and all patients must be aware of the signs and symptoms and advise their medical providers immediately about their respective concerns. This is a serious matter and must never be taken lightly. The sooner it is identified, the better the outcome! The following article has been retrieved from the Mayo Clinic: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sepsis/symptoms-causes/syc-20351214 Overview Sepsis is a serious condition in which the body responds improperly to an infection. The infection-fighting processes turn on the body, causing the organs to work poorly. Sepsis may progress to septic shock. This is [...]
Recipe of the Month: Buffalo Chicken Dip
Our September recipe is the perfect addition to any football tailgating or watch party spread: Buffalo Chicken Dip.
Anemia in Chronic Kidney Disease News Update
Are you anemic? What is anemia? Chronic kidney disease is a leading factor in anemia because when the kidneys are damaged, they cannot produce enough erythropoietin (EPO), a hormone that stimulates red blood cell production. Iron deficiency and inflammation can also be other factors that can cause anemia. Why is this news? Patients who have chronic kidney disease are often told that they are anemic but may not understand the term or the causes. This article will help to explain the causes, symptoms and treatment for anemia. The following article is retrieved from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disease website: https://www.niddk.nih.gov. What is anemia? Anemia is a condition in which [...]
Recipe of the Month: Zucchini Squash Bake
Our August recipe is a super quick and simple recipe that takes advantage of all the summer squash that’s in season: Zucchini Squash Bake.
You Are What You Eat!
Hypertension and diabetes are two known risk factors for chronic kidney disease. It is vital that all patients follow a renal diet whether on dialysis or transplanted. Sodium and potassium must always be monitored by obtaining the appropriate labs. It is also extremely important to consult with a nutritionist or dietitian to ensure that the proper diet is followed, especially if one is experiencing problems with hypertension and/or diabetes. Proper nutrition is a key factor in living your best life! Of course, your nephrologist and/or general practitioner should always monitor your overall health concerns. We urge you to read this article, and if you have any questions or concerns, please consult a medical practitioner. [...]
Recipe of the Month: Fish Tacos
Our July recipe is a quick and easy summer favorite: Fish Tacos.
Let’s Get Away!
Are you ready to take a small trip, a vacation or a weekend getaway? Every month, we bring you current renal news articles but we have decided to focus on travel tips for renal patients. Many patients are reluctant to travel for many reasons but hopefully, these tips will help you to feel more confident as you plan to travel. Get excited, plan a trip, enjoy the summer! The following tips are being shared with you from DaVita Kidney Care (www.davita.com). Vacation on Dialysis People on dialysis can enjoy different types of vacations. You can set sail on a cruise ship, book a vacation abroad, road trip across the country, or visit famous attractions and entertainment spots. [...]
Recipe of the Month: BBQ Beef
Our June recipe is perfect for when you want a hearty dinner without heating up your kitchen: BBQ Beef.
DPC and the DPC Education Center Mourn the Passing of Diane Brisbane
It is with a heavy heart that Dialysis Patient Citizens (DPC) and the DPC Education Center learned of the passing of former Board Member, Diane Brisbane. Diane grew up in the South Jamaica section of Queens, NY and was raised in a household and community that taught family first and service to others. This is the mindset with which she pursued life. After getting her start as a nurses’ aide, she eventually advanced to EKG technician, and later to supervisor of the EKG department, and finally retired after 37 years of service. During the course of her career, she served on various committees to improve employee relations, educate employees, and unite the hospital and community, [...]
Camarones con Sémola de Maíz
Receta enviada por Arnella Chatman para el DCI Kidney Cookbook Tiempo de preparación: 20 min Tiempo de cocción: 40 min Tiempo total: 1 hora Porciones: 4 Ingredientes: 1 taza sémola de maíz blanca molida gruesa 2 cucharadas mantequilla sin sal ½ manojo de chalotes pequeños, picados ½ taza maíz 1 cucharada aceite vegetal 1 pizca hojuelas de pimiento rojo (opcional) ½ taza pimiento rojo picado 1 taza guisantes verdes ¾ libra camarones, pelados y desvenados Instrucciones: En una olla grande, lleve 3 tazas de agua a ebullición. Agregue la sémola de maíz, reduzca a fuego bajo, cubra y cocine durante 20 minutos, revolviendo ocasionalmente. Cuando la sémola esté espesa pero cremosa, retire del fuego [...]
Why Medicare’s Payment System Keeps New Dialysis Drugs from Reaching Patients
Jackson Williams, DPC Vice President of Public Policy Payment bundling is a technique Medicare uses to increase efficiency and reduce low-value care during a treatment episode. Congress adopted a payment bundle for dialysis a decade ago and for several years it worked well. But trade-offs are inherent in bundles and there is always potential for a negative impact on consumers. This negative experience has arrived for dialysis patients in the form of non—prescribing of new drugs. Patients are missing out on improvements to their health and quality of life. A bundled payment sets a maximum price for all the items and services involved in a treatment or episode. When those items can [...]
A Faithful Kidney Patient Caregiver’s Journey
Sheree Stephens, DPC Patient Ambassador I would describe being a kidney patient caregiver to my husband as inspiring, beautiful, and life changing. Ken has fought kidney failure for years, and I’ve stood beside him every step of the way. The journey can be, at times, stressful and tiring but with strong communication and a strong relationship with God, the journey is not nearly as overwhelming. When we met in 2010, he told me upfront his kidneys were failing. I heard him, but love doesn’t calculate risks. We built a life together, knowing challenges would come. In 2016, they did. Ken started peritoneal dialysis, and our world changed. Peritoneal dialysis impacted our lives, [...]
Preventing Infections in Hemodialysis
Dr. Anil Agarwal, Nephrologist Download PDF Article Descargar artículo en PDF For patients undergoing hemodialysis, infection prevention is not just a recommendation, it’s a necessity. Hemodialysis patients have a compromised immune system and face a heightened risk of infections, which can affect their lives in a multitude of ways. Many suffer from bloodstream infections, which can lead to hospitalization and even life-threatening complications like sepsis. Catheter-related infections and skin infections near the vascular access site, also quite common, can put patients in the hospital as well. Any of these infections can delay hemodialysis patients’ upcoming kidney transplant. Luckily, with education and vigilance, patients can use strategies to avoid many of [...]
