Kidney Commute

Legislation has played a defining role in how dialysis care is delivered in the United States, directly influencing access, coverage, and patient choice. In this episode of Kidney Commute: Pitstop, host Osama El Shamy, MD, FASN, FNKF, is joined by Lauren Drew, JD, and Eugene Lin, MD, MS, FASN for an in depth discussion on the policy decisions that have shaped kidney care. The conversation traces key legislative milestones, including the creation of the ESRD benefit, the Medicare dialysis bundle, Medicare Advantage expansion, and the Advancing American Kidney Health Initiative. Speakers also examine the current legislative landscape, its impact on dialysis patient choice, and opportunities for professional advocacy in kidney care.

Is dialysis nephrology’s greatest achievement or its original sin? In this Kidney Commute: Pit Stop episode, host Dr. Osama El Shamy, welcomes Dr. Andrew Cohen, to discuss a provocative question that challenges how the field of nephrology has evolved. Drawing from Dr. Cohen’s recent AJKD publication, the conversation explores key historical milestones, including early innovations, the 1972 Medicare amendment, and the rise of corporatized dialysis care. Together, they examine how these forces have shaped trainee perceptions, workforce recruitment, and the identity of nephrology today. The episode concludes with a forward-looking discussion on how the field can refocus priorities, embrace innovation, and chart a more balanced path beyond dialysis-centered care. AJKD Article: https://www.ajkd.org/article/S0272-6386(25)00711-5/abstract

Navigating the transition from pediatric to adult kidney transplant care is one of the most pivotal and vulnerable periods for young patients. In this episode of the Kidney Commute, an interdisciplinary panel of nephrology, social work, nursing, pharmacy experts, and a kidney transplant recipient explore the medical, psychological, and social complexities that shape a successful transition. The discussion addresses readiness for independence, medication and insurance changes, adherence challenges, family dynamics, and coordinated handoffs between pediatric and adult teams. Through real-world insights and practical strategies, this episode highlights approaches to support continuity of care, protect graft survival, and empower young adults as they move into adult-centered transplant care. This episode is complemented by additional insights from a psychologist who was unable to join the discussion; related resources are available at this link.

In this Kidney Commute: Pitstop episode, host Anna Gaddy, MD, FASN, FNKF, is joined by Kaice LaFavers, PhD, and Pranav Garimella, MBBS, MPH, to explore uromodulin. They discuss its role in infection defense, immune modulation, AKI and sepsis, genetic insights, and evolving methods to study its multiple forms. A concise, science driven look at why uromodulin matters in kidney health.

Effective management of obesity in patients with CKD requires a holistic, interprofessional approach. In part 2 of this episode, the conversation continues with translating the evolving evidence into practical guidance for nephrology teams. Experts review the importance of a person-centered approach integrating lifestyle interventions, pharmacologic therapies, and surgical options with a focus on safety, efficacy, and kidney-related outcomes. The discussion emphasizes how members of the nephrology care team can collaborate to personalize treatment, address appetite and nutrition concerns, and help patients achieve meaningful weight loss without compromising kidney health. Tune in for actionable insights and strategies to translate emerging science into individualized, kidney-friendly, weight management strategies. Please be sure to visit the National Kidney Foundation's Obesity in the Nephrology Clinic page for additional information and access to an infographic designed to support clinical care for managing obesity in individuals living with CKD: https://www.kidney.org/professionals/tools/obesity-nephrology-clinic Supported by Novo Nordisk

Obesity and chronic kidney disease (CKD) are deeply interconnected as each condition increases the risk and severity of the other. In part 1 of this episode, our interprofessional panel of experts explores the science behind this bidirectional relationship and the epidemiologic data underscoring their connection. Listeners will gain insight into the underlying pathophysiology, including the roles of inflammation, altered kidney hemodynamics, and lipotoxicity. Through practical discussion and dissection of the literature, this episode highlights the importance of recognizing obesity as both a cause and consequence of CKD, and the crucial role nephrology professionals play in interrupting this cycle early. Please be sure to visit the National Kidney Foundation's Obesity in the Nephrology Clinic page for additional information and access to an infographic designed to support clinical care for managing obesity in individuals living with CKD: https://www.kidney.org/professionals/tools/obesity-nephrology-clinic Supported by Novo Nordisk

When should dialysis be withheld at the end of life—and who makes that decision? Join host Raphy Rosen with experts Drs. Alvin Moss and Christine Corbett as they explore the ethical, clinical, and emotional challenges the nephrology team face when considering “no” to dialysis. Learn how shared decision-making, time-limited trials, and compassionate communication can help align care with patient values and improve end-of-life outcomes.   Host: Raphy Rosen, MD, FASN, FNKF Panelists: Christine Corbett, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, CNN-NP, ACHPN, FNKF and Alvin H. Moss, MD, FACP, FAAHPM

In this episode, we explore the evolving role of surrogate endpoints in the management of IgA nephropathy (IgAN), with a particular focus on the significance of estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Of the completed Phase 3 trials in IgAN, one used time-weighted average eGFR, an area under the curve-based measure that reflects the average change in eGFR from baseline over a specified period, in this case, over the full 2-year study period. The other trial used total eGFR slope to describe the overall rate of change over 2 years. But what do these endpoints mean outside the setting of a clinical trial? Expert insights shed light on how proteinuria and eGFR trends can inform prognosis and guide treatment decisions in clinical practice over the long term. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of how to interpret eGFR changes over time and apply this knowledge to optimize patient care. Designed for nephrology professionals, this episode offers practical, evidence-based perspectives on integrating these surrogate endpoints into the care of patients with IgAN. Supported by Calliditas Therapeutics Upon completion of the podcast, please take a moment to complete a brief survey: https://kidneyforms.tfaforms.net/4728109

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects more than 35 million U.S. adults, yet only a small percentage see a dietitian before starting dialysis. In this episode of Kidney Commute, experts and a patient share how Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) can slow CKD progression, improve quality of life, and support patients in making sustainable dietary changes. Listeners will also gain practical insights on insurance coverage, referral pathways, and strategies to expand access to renal nutrition care.

In this Kidney Commute: Pitstop episode, host Dr. Osama El Shamy speaks with Drs. Susie Hu and Anthony Chang about the first AJKD Core Curriculum update since 2016 on localized renal masses. They unpack risk factors, incidental findings, treatment strategies, and the vital role nephrologists play—alongside urology and pathology—in preserving kidney function and improving patient care.   AJKD Article: https://www.ajkd.org/article/S0272-63862500973-4/fulltext

Join host Dr. Sam Kant and experts Dr. Craig Gordon and Dr. Pranav Garimella as they break down the latest AJKD Core Curriculum on Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD). This episode explores genetics, imaging, prognostic tools, lifestyle strategies, and management, offering practical, evidence-based insights to guide kidney care professionals.   AJKD Article: Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease: Core Curriculum 2025 - American Journal of Kidney Diseases

In this Kidney Commute episode, host Dr. Nupur Gupta is joined by Dr. Vandana Dua Niyyar, Cheryl Cress, RN, CNN, and home dialysis patient Jane DeMeis with her care partner Joe. They explore challenges and solutions in vascular access for home hemodialysis, including access types, self-cannulation, patient education, and real-world impacts. This interprofessional discussion blends clinical expertise and lived experience to improve patient outcomes.   This episode offers CME/CE credit to eligible listeners through August 12, 2027. If you'd like to claim credit, please go to kidney.org/podcast-CE to register for this episode and complete requirements.

This episode delves into the updated AJKD Core Curriculum on Continuous Kidney Replacement Therapies (CKRT). Host Anna Gaddy is joined by authors J. Pedro Teixeira, Swapnil Hiremath and Edward Clark, as they explore crucial topics like the practical advantages and disadvantages of CRRT, mechanisms of hemodynamic instability with KRT, and strategies for de-escalation. This episode provides valuable insights into the evolving world of kidney care and addresses key considerations for nephrology professionals. The full article can be found on the AJKD website here: https://www.ajkd.org/article/S0272-63862401120-X/fulltext

In this episode of the Kidney Commute: Pitstop* series, host, Raphy Rosen is joined by Christine Corbett and Alvin Moss to discuss active medical care without dialysis. Host: Raphy Rosen, MD, FNKF Guests: Christine Corbett, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, CNN-NP, ACHPN, FNKF & Alvin Moss, MD, FACP, FAAHPM Please visit https://www.kidney.org/podcasts/kidney-commute to view additional resources. *The Kidney Commute: Pitstop series was previously known as the NKF Life as a Nephrology Professional podcast.

Discover expert insights on kidney stone prevention and management in this episode featuring a physician, dietitian, pharmacist, and patient. Learn about key kidney stone risk factors and explore how dietary adjustments can reduce stone recurrence. Experts discuss fluid intake strategies, medication considerations, surgical indications, and even unconventional questions about roller coasters’ impact on stone passage. Tune in for actionable advice, myth-busting discussions, and interprofessional perspectives. This episode offers CME/CE credit to eligible listeners. If you'd like to claim credit, please go to kidney.org/podcast-CE to register for this episode and complete requirements. 

Palliative care, or treatment focused on symptom management and quality of life, is an important and often overlooked aspect of care for people with kidney disease. Similarly, conservative treatment of advanced kidney disease, or medical management without dialysis or transplantation, is not well understood by patients and care providers alike. In this episode of the Kidney Commute, our interprofessional team discusses these two important aspects of kidney disease care. This episode offers CME/CE credit to eligible listeners. If you'd like to claim credit, please go to kidney.org/podcast-CE to register for this episode and complete requirements.

Cancer is the leading cause of death in the world, associated with high morbidity and mortality. This episode discusses how kidneys are affected by cancer and its treatment. Panelists discuss diagnosing and managing complex kidney problems, such as acute kidney injury associated with cancer and novel oncological therapies, as well as summarize drug dosing in patients with cancer. Thanks for joining us on this ride of the Kidney Commute. This episode offers CME/CE credit to eligible listeners. If you'd like to claim credit, please go to kidney.org/podcast-CE to register for this episode and complete requirements.

2025 will bring BIG changes to the dialysis world.  As of Jan 01, oral phosphorus binders will be part of the dialysis payment bundle, out-of-pocket costs for prescription medications are changing in amounts and payment models, and coverage for certain dental services is expanding, to name a few.  In this episode we will explore how these changes will likely impact patients, nephrologists, and dialysis units. Thanks for joining us on this ride of the Kidney Commute! This episode offers CME/CE credit to eligible listeners. If you'd like to claim credit, please go to kidney.org/podcast-CE to register for this episode and complete requirements. 

Patients and care team members often encounter challenges faced by individuals from different cultural backgrounds regarding access to kidney transplantation. This episode explores the impact of a culturally sensitive approach to living donation. Panelists will discuss resources to assist with approaching these conversations effectively while taking into consideration patient-specific factors such as culture, ethnicity, language and religious beliefs. Thanks for joining us on this ride of the Kidney Commute. This episode offers CME/CE credit to eligible listeners. If you'd like to claim credit, please go to kidney.org/podcast-CE to register for this episode and complete requirements. 

Do all patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) need potassium restriction? In this episode we will explore the current guidelines of potassium intake in different CKD populations. Apart from the guidelines, we will explore the potassium concentration in foods and some tips and tricks for counseling patients. After listening to this episode, you will be in a better position to talk to patients about their potassium needs. Thanks for joining us on this ride of the Kidney Commute. This episode offers CME/CE credit to eligible listeners. If you'd like to claim credit, go to kidney.org/podcast-CE to register for this episode and complete requirements.