Hemodialysis at Home
Three Types of At-Home Hemodialysis
- Conventional Home Hemodialysis: Performed three times a week for 3-4 hours or more each session. Both you and your care partner are trained over several weeks or months to manage the process safely and address any issues.
- Short Daily Home Hemodialysis: Done 5-7 times per week using modern machines. Each session lasts about 2 hours. More frequent sessions mean less fluid needs to be removed, reducing symptoms like cramping, headaches, and nausea.
- Nocturnal Home Hemodialysis: Conducted during sleep, typically 6 times a week or every other night. Sessions last 6-8 hours, providing slow, extended treatments. This option may include remote monitoring of your machine’s data.
A combination of daily and nocturnal hemodialysis might be possible based on your health needs and doctor’s guidance. Regular tests will ensure you’re receiving the right amount of dialysis. Speak with your doctor or dialysis team to learn more.
Added benefits of short daily and nocturnal home hemodialysis
Reports show that individuals using short daily or nocturnal home hemodialysis experience multiple health improvements, including:
- Reduced need for medications to control blood pressure, anemia, and phosphorus levels (helping prevent bone disease)
- Improvements in nerve-related issues like neuropathy and fewer symptoms of restless leg syndrome
- Better overall well-being during dialysis and less fatigue afterward
- Increased energy for daily activities and better sleep
- Fewer and shorter hospital stays
- Enhanced quality of life and improved life expectancy
New Technology in Home Hemodialysis
Innovative, user-friendly machines are being designed specifically for home hemodialysis. These machines are simpler to set up, clean, and disinfect, making the process more convenient. With certain advanced models, you’ll also have fewer supplies to store. If you’re considering home hemodialysis, consult with your doctor to find the equipment that best suits your needs.
Deciding if Home Hemodialysis is Right for You
Home hemodialysis isn’t the best option for everyone. It requires a commitment to learning about the process and taking responsibility for your treatment. You and your care partner must be able to complete the necessary training, including learning how to insert needles, and be comfortable handling the equipment. If you’re able to manage these tasks, home hemodialysis may be a suitable option for you.
Finding a Center That Offers Home Hemodialysis
Locating a center that offers home hemodialysis can be challenging. If your current center doesn’t provide this option, check online resources for centers that do. Visit the center, meet the home training nurse, and speak with other staff members. If possible, talk to patients already undergoing home treatment. Success depends on two main factors:
A center and doctor committed to training you and following your care.
Your commitment to learning and performing home hemodialysis for at least a
Your Care Partner
Most home hemodialysis programs require you to have a care partner to assist during treatments. This person, often a family member or friend, attends training with you to learn the necessary procedures. Some patients opt to hire a nurse or technician as their care partner, though it’s important to note that Medicare does not cover the cost of these hired helpers. Having a committed and trained care partner is essential for successful home hemodialysis.
Insurance Coverage for Home Hemodialysis
The social worker at your dialysis center can provide you with details about insurance coverage for home hemodialysis. Medicare covers part of the cost, including the training. If you are 65 or older or disabled, you likely already have Medicare. You can also qualify for Medicare at any age if you have kidney failure and meet certain work-related criteria through Social Security.
Other sources may also help cover dialysis costs. Discuss any potential plumbing or wiring changes or extra costs for home hemodialysis with your social worker.
If you have an employer group health plan, it will be your primary coverage for the first 30 months of treatment, with Medicare as your secondary insurance. After the initial 30 months, Medicare will become your primary insurance provider.
Online Information
Dialysis Facility Compare—Find information about dialysis centers that offer home hemodialysis training programs at www.medicare.gov
Home Dialysis Central—Learn about home dialysis options, talk to other patients, find out if a dialysis center near you offers a home hemodialysis program at www.homedialysis.org