Health equity in dialysis care: Time for action

ABSTRACT

The development of chronic kidney disease and its progression to End Stage Renal Disease requiring renal replacement therapy remains a significant source of reduced quality of life and premature mortality. The global dialysis population and treatment gap is growing, especially in low- and middle- income countries. In India, 70% of those starting dialysis, die or discontinue treatment in the initial period due to the high cost of treatment and lack of access to dialysis therapy. Achieving health equity requires ensuring access to the resources that needs to be healthy, and addressing social determinants of health involves needs factors that influence the health outcomes. Universal Health Coverage requires an alternate model to address the substantial Out-Of-Pocket-Expenditure borne by these patients for traveling and medications.