In Germany, about 100,000 people are dependent on regular dialysis because their kidney function is severely limited or absent. This vital treatment is cost- and personnel-intensive, especially in view of the increasing shortage of skilled workers in the health care system. The German Society of Nephrology (DGfN) sees home dialysis as a promising but still underused form of therapy that offers both medical and everyday practical advantages.

Home dialysis allows patients to carry out their treatment independently at home, either as peritoneal dialysis via the peritoneum or as classic hemodialysis. This method offers flexibility in time management, saves long journeys to dialysis centers and improves the quality of life. Regular and continuous dialysis treatments come closer to natural kidney function and promote the health of those affected. Home dialysis is an attractive option, especially for working or self-employed people as well as those with family support. The prerequisite is comprehensive training of patients and treating physicians as well as the willingness to carry out the work independently. Outpatient and inpatient dialysis facilities serve as reliable support for medical questions.

The DGfN is using the current health policy momentum to structurally strengthen home dialysis. As of 1 January 2025, the evaluation committee consisting of the National Association of Statutory Health Insurance Physicians and the National Association of Statutory Health Insurance has decided on new financial incentives. Service providers will receive weekly bonuses of 96.50 euros for the first 52 weeks of treatment, for which about 15 million euros will be provided. This measure is intended to promote the spread of home dialysis and reduce pressure on overburdened dialysis centers. As early as 2021, the DGfN had called for the strengthening of home dialysis in its 10-point plan in order to offer patients with chronic kidney disease more options that correspond to their life circumstances.

Internationally, the DGfN is involved in the International Home Dialysis Consortium, which brings together professional societies, medical staff, patient organizations and political decision-makers to advance home dialysis worldwide. At the same time, the society emphasizes the importance of early detection of chronic kidney disease. Increased cooperation with family doctors, cardiologists and diabetologists is intended to improve prevention in order to reduce the need for dialysis and specialist staff in the long term.

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Editor: X-Press Journalistenbüro GbR

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