Abstract: SA-PO0992
Exploring Patient Perspectives on Reasons for Missing Dialysis Treatments
Session Information
- Educational Research
October 24, 2026 | Location: Exhibit Hall A, Convention Center
Abstract Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Category: Educational Research
- 1000 Educational Research
Authors
- Eaton, Karen-Marie, DaVita Inc, Denver, Colorado, United States
- Gonzalez Rodriguez, Humberto, 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
Missed dialysis treatments are associated with increased risk of hospitalization and mortality for patients with end-stage kidney disease; the reason behind any given missed treatment is often not well understood in clinical practice and requires a comprehensive understanding of patient circumstances. This study sought to investigate in detail the reasons for specific missed dialysis treatments from the patients' perspectives.
Methods
Using internal electronic health records, patients at a large kidney care organization who missed at least one dialysis treatment for reasons other than hospitalization between December 15, 2025 and January 6, 2026 (N=3,998) were mailed questionnaires asking 10 questions related to missed treatments and potential rescheduling.
Results
Of the 244 survey replies, 76%, 14%, 6% reported missing 1, 2, or 3+ treatments in the past month. Most patients (63%) indicated that the circumstances leading to the missed treatment arose on the same day. In 48% of instances, patients attributed the missed treatment to health reasons; the remainder were attributed to transportation (11%), personal schedule/obligations (9%), and other (32%). Only 1/3 of patients indicated intention to make up the missed dialysis session, but rescheduling was notably higher when the center reached out proactively to the patient (54%) vs. when no such contact took place (38%). Nearly half of patients worried that missing a treatment would cause health problems – somatic concerns such as swelling (60%) and feeling tired/weak (55%) were more commonly feared than problems related to underlying health status: heart (34%), hospitalization (37%), or trouble breathing (41%). However, fear of health problems did not correlate with a greater likelihood of rescheduling.
Conclusion
Missing treatments is associated with poor outcomes. Understanding the reasoning behind the missed treatment will help to individualize the strategy for rescheduling. Tailoring the messaging about the impact of a missed treatment at an individual level may help to engage the patient to make informed decisions about their own health. Additionally, proactive rescheduling efforts appear to increase make-up sessions.