Patient receiving dialysis (Photo: Anna Frodesiak)
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has announced a partnership with the American Association of Kidney Patients (AAKP) to improve the quality of life for Veterans with kidney disease.
This collaboration provides support, educational resources, and enhanced testing capabilities to Veterans living with chronic kidney disease. The joint effort is part of VA’s Kidney Medicine Program, which is dedicated to improving the healthcare and well-being of Veterans affected by kidney conditions.
As a group, Veterans have higher rates of chronic kidney disease than the general U.S. population. Kidney disease affects about 1 in 7 Americans, but it affects approximately 1 in 6 Veterans. This includes over 40,000 VA-enrolled Veterans with kidney failure (end-stage renal disease, or ESRD) who rely on dialysis or a kidney transplant to survive.
Veterans with kidney disease often experience debilitating symptoms such as fatigue, nausea, vomiting, and swelling, significantly impacting their daily lives. Through the VA-AAKP partnership, Veterans will receive vital resources to manage their condition effectively. The collaboration emphasizes early detection and appropriate diagnosis, ensuring timely intervention for better treatment outcomes.
To increase awareness and understanding of kidney disease among the Veteran community, the partnership will conduct annual webinars focused on kidney health issues. These webinars will serve as valuable educational tools for Veterans and their families, providing essential information about nutrition, physical health, subsequent disease prevention, and overall management.
Recognizing the importance of a strong support system, the partnership encourages family involvement in the care of Veterans with kidney disease. The collaboration will promote a team-based approach to alleviate burdens and enhance treatment outcomes, ultimately leading to an improved quality of life for these individuals.
Dr. Paul Palevsky, Deputy Executive Director of the Veterans Health Administration Kidney Medicine Program, stressed that the VA is dedicated to offering Veterans with kidney disease top-notch healthcare and ensuring they have the highest possible quality of life. The collaboration with AAKP will ensure that Veterans are aware of the resources and benefits available to them, optimizing their access to high-quality care.
This partnership represents a continuation of VA’s efforts to enhance care and treatment for kidney patients since the 1940s. By combining resources, expertise, and advocacy, the VA’s collaboration with the American Association of Kidney Patients, the biggest independent kidney patient group in the U.S., creates a positive impact on the lives of those who have served their nation in uniform. With support, educational initiatives, and a team-based approach, the VA-AAKP partnership will make a significant difference in the lives of Veterans living with kidney disease.
Author: Rikki Almanza
Rikki is a Web Content Coordinator for the American Legion, Department of California. With a deep-rooted connection to the military, a spouse who is a Navy veteran, a father who served in the Air Force for 25 years, and a grandfather who proudly served, Rikki is committed to using her skills and knowledge to provide valuable assistance and resources to servicemembers and veterans.
