Most social workers have a Master's degree and specialize in assisting people with their daily lives. They may help you with insurance issues/questions, help you get your bills paid, listen to your family concerns and offer assistance when appropriate, help with all the paper work involved with being on dialysis, help you get the medications prescribed to you, assist in obtaining needed medical equipment, arrange transportation service options, and aid you in finding help in your home if needed.

Before the 1960's, people with kidney disease did not have many treatment options and often died. During the late 1970's and early 1980's, dialysis technology really evolved and became a treatment option for everyone with kidney disease in order to extend their lives. Dialysis filters wastes and fluids from the blood like the kidneys did, but not as well. With continued advance in dialysis technology, these dialysis machines are expected to get closer and closer to real kidney function.

Most people who start dialysis qualify for federal assistance for their treatments. Some may qualify for assistance for both their dialysis treatments and medications. Make sure to meet with your social worker to find the best programs for you. Also, having both a primary and secondary insurance will help with your medical costs.

Absolutely! There are dialysis centers all over the country and the world. The only difference is that you will have to plan a little more before going on your vacation. Make sure to complete a vacation request form early enough (ie. 3 weeks prior to your vacation start date) to arrange dialysis at a center closest to your vacation destination.

Some people continue to work a job after starting dialysis, but become easily fatigued at work and decide to quit shortly there after. People who continue to work find it easier to schedule their dialysis for after their work day is complete.

Those who decide to continue to work usually reduced their hours per week, but the majority of people on dialysis no longer work. However, some studies have shown that patients who decide to continue to work are more confident, helps keep a normal routine, and may help you live longer.