Factors affecting uptake of home hemodialysis among self-care dialysis unit patients

Introduction Superior outcomes have been reported among hemodialysis (HD) patients who take active control over their dialysis treatment either at self-care satellite dialysis units or home compared to the regular in-center hemodialysis patient. Although the differences between the home hemodialysis (HHD) and self-care in-center HD (SCHD) are not well described, the growing literature on the superior outcomes of HHD suggests that HHD is the better option. Methods We performed a cross-sectional study in a stand-alone self-care unit to examine the differences in patients that are keen to consider HHD and those who are not. Findings A cross-sectional sample of 44 patients completed a structured interview and the distress thermometer score used to assess psychological stress. Only 68% of patients reported to have heard about the benefits of HHD despite the long-established history and availability of the modality in the unit. One of the more critical findings in our study was that the cohort of patients who were keen to consider HHD believed that self-care and HHD would improve their quality of life (P< 0.05). Specifically, the perceived benefits stated by those willing to consider HHD were the lack of need to travel, association with better outcomes and the possibility of having the treatment in the comfort of home (P< 0.05). Discussion We surmise that the answers expressed in this survey likely reflect a difference in perceptions of self-care and beliefs about HHD; hence, the importance of introducing HHD education earlier in the course of their chronic kidney disease journey.