ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: A home haemodialysis programme (HHD) was established in Ireland in 2009 following studies suggesting better outcomes and a survival advantage when compared to conventional in-centre dialysis. AIM: The aim of this study was to assess the outcomes in patients commenced on the HHD programme. METHODS: Baseline characteristics, standard dialysis parameters, blood pressure control, antihypertensive usage, vascular access problems, hospitalisation rates and technical issues related to dialysis were analysed. RESULTS: Seventeen patients were followed over a 2-year period. Time spent travelling for dialysis-related treatments was reduced with time on dialysis per week increased. There was a trend towards lower blood pressure with nine patients, either discontinuing or having a reduction in antihypertensive medications. There were eight episodes of hospitalisation with the majority of complications related to vascular access. CONCLUSION: Home haemodialysis is a community-based therapy, offering an alternative to conventional in-centre haemodialysis in a select patient population.