Abstract: FR-PO1051
Protocol for a Qualitative Study of Lived Experiences with Hemodiafiltration in US Adults
Session Information
- Hemodialysis: Clinical Challenges, Patient-Centered Outcomes, and Quality of Life
October 23, 2026 | Location: Exhibit Hall A, Convention Center
Abstract Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Category: Dialysis
- 801 Dialysis: Hemodialysis and Frequent Dialysis
Authors
- Velez-Bermudez, Miriam E., Fresenius Medical Care North America, New York, New York, United States
- Pham, Ngoc, Fresenius Medical Care Deutschland GmbH, Bad Homburg, HE, Germany
- Atiye, Saynab, Fresenius Medical Care Deutschland GmbH, Bad Homburg, HE, Germany
- Alvarez Elias, Ana Catalina, Fresenius Medical Care North America, New York, New York, United States
- Cromm, Krister, Fresenius Medical Care Deutschland GmbH, Bad Homburg, HE, Germany
Background
Hemodiafiltration (HDF) is an emerging dialysis modality in the United States (US) that may offer survival and physiological advantages over conventional in-center hemodialysis (HD). Despite these potential benefits, no studies have empirically evaluated the lived experience of HDF among US patients. Although patient-reported outcomes (PROs) are well-established for HD, it remains unclear whether established domains adequately reflect the HDF experience. This study aims to: 1) Characterize the lived experience of HDF among US patients, including perceived similarities and differences relative to HD; and 2) Explore experiences across existing dialysis PRO domains, including patients’ perceptions of recovery following HDF compared to HD.
Methods
We will use an exploratory qualitative approach with targeted concept elicitation via in-depth interviews among US adults who have received outpatient HD for >6 months and HDF for >4 weeks at enrollment. Purposive sampling with maximum variation will guide iterative recruitment to capture diverse patient experiences. English/Spanish interviews in dialysis clinics will follow a semi-structured interview guide with structured question sets informed by past literature on PROs and recovery time in dialysis patients, and the Standardized Outcomes in Nephrology-HD (SONG-HD) framework. Audio-recorded transcripts will be de-identified and analyzed using thematic analysis in MAXQDA to identify overarching themes and patterns.
Results
We expect to generate descriptive accounts of US patients’ lived experiences with HDF. Participants are expected to describe their prior dialysis experiences, first impressions of HDF, and perceived changes over time. Interviews will provide preliminary insights into how existing HD-focused PRO domains reflect the HDF experience and identify aspects of HDF that may differ from HD in ways not adequately captured by current measures.
Conclusion
This study will provide the first qualitative characterization of HDF experiences among US patients, addressing an important gap in the literature. Findings will support hypothesis generation, inform future PRO research, and offer early guidance for developing HDF-specific PRO and SONG frameworks, representing a critical first step toward understanding HDF from the patient perspective, and advancing patient-centered dialysis research.
Funding
- Commercial Support – Fresenius Medical Care