Abstract: FR-PO0989
Dialysis Facility Staff Support Is Crucial During Transplant Evaluation Process
Session Information
- Transplantation: Clinical - Pretransplantation, Living Donation, and Policies
November 07, 2025 | Location: Exhibit Hall, Convention Center
Abstract Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Category: Transplantation
- 2102 Transplantation: Clinical
Authors
- Gonzalez Rodriguez, Humberto, DaVita Inc, Denver, Colorado, United States
- Eaton, Karen-Marie, DaVita Inc, Denver, Colorado, United States
- Maixner, William D., DaVita Inc, Denver, Colorado, United States
- Weinhandl, Eric D., DaVita Inc, Denver, Colorado, United States
- Brunelli, Steven M., DaVita Inc, Denver, Colorado, United States
- Tentori, Francesca, DaVita Inc, Denver, Colorado, United States
Background
The process of obtaining a kidney transplant is complex and individualized. Completing a transplant evaluation remains difficult. This study examined the experiences of participants with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) referred for a transplant to identify opportunities that may support referred individuals complete a transplant evaluation.
Methods
Semi-structured phone interviews were conducted with adults (18-75 years) receiving dialysis who were referred for a transplant but did not start or complete an evaluation. Seventeen participants in four states were interviewed May – October 2024. Interviews were conducted in English and Spanish and inductively analyzed using narrative and thematic techniques.
Results
The “post-referral pre-evaluation” period emerged as a crucial time for participants to initiate communication with transplant centers. Most participants described their reason for not starting or completing an evaluation and their awareness of this outcome enabled them to consider or act upon the next steps in their treatment or transplant journey. Conversely, participants expressed uncertainty when communication with transplant centers was never established post-referral or was interrupted during the evaluation process. Prolonged communication gaps with transplant centers resulted in confusion about a participant’s position within the evaluation process and diminished interest or motivation towards a transplant. Post-referral follow-up and guidance from dialysis facilities helped participants navigate obstacles.
Conclusion
Individuals interested in transplantation may benefit from routine post-referral follow-up to help them to facilitate communication with transplant centers and complete a transplant evaluation to increase their odds of getting waitlisted.