In an enlightening session held on January 19th, 2024, Dr. Craig Hurwitz of Northern Nephrology and Hypertension (NNH) and Dr. Jeffrey Rimmer from the University of Vermont, shared their expert insights on the evolution of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) care and the importance of risk-based management at the Grand Rounds. Their talk, underscored by a review of updated guidelines, marked a significant moment in the important transformation of CKD treatment here in the North Country.Chronic Kidney Disease, a condition characterized by the gradual loss of kidney function over time, affects millions worldwide. The traditional approach to CKD care has often been reactive, focusing on treating symptoms as they arise. However, Drs. Hurwitz and Rimmer emphasized the shift towards a more proactive, risk-based management strategy, in line with the latest Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) recommendations.The speakers highlighted how risk-based management involves early identification and stratification of patients based on their risk of CKD progression and complications. This approach enables healthcare providers to tailor interventions, such as lifestyle modifications, medication adjustments using new and powerful CKD disease modifying therapies, and monitoring strategies, more effectively. By doing so, it not only slows the progression of the disease but also improves the quality of life for patients.Moreover, Drs. Hurwitz and Rimmer discussed how this paradigm shift could significantly impact primary care physicians, who are often the first point of contact for patients with CKD. By adopting a risk-based approach, primary care physicians can play a pivotal role in early detection and management, thereby optimizing referral patters and reducing the burden on specialized care and improving overall kidney health outcomes.<br><br>The talk also delved into how this change in CKD care is influencing clinical trial study inclusion criteria. With a more nuanced understanding of CKD risks and progression, researchers can design more targeted and effective clinical trials, leading to the development of innovative treatments and therapies.Patient satisfaction, a key indicator of healthcare quality, is also expected to rise with this approach. Patients are more likely to feel empowered and engaged in their care when it is tailored to their individual risk profile and needs.In conclusion, the insights shared by Drs. Hurwitz and Rimmer at the Grand Rounds represent a significant step forward in the management of Chronic Kidney Disease. Their emphasis on risk-based care as per KDIGO recommendations holds the promise of transforming the landscape of CKD treatment, leading to better patient outcomes, enhanced satisfaction, and more efficient healthcare delivery. As these ideas percolate through the medical community, the hope is that they will inspire primary care physicians and specialists alike to adopt this forward-thinking approach for the benefit of patients worldwide.
