NEWS
The National Kidney Foundation of Michigan and Greenfield Health Systems
teamed up in 2008 for Peer Mentor - “Prevention Fair” Events”

Care providers are highly encouraged to focus screening efforts on family members of those with known kidney disease. Studies have shown that nearly ¼ of all dialysis patients have a family member also on dialysis. Family members of people with chronic kidney disease are more likely to have high blood pressure, diabetes, excess protein in the urine, and undetected kidney disease.

In light of this, Greenfield Health Systems paired up with The National Kidney Foundation of Michigan to conduct “Prevention Fair” screening events at several of the Greenfield dialysis units. Current people receiving dialysis were encouraged to invite their family members to come for free, quick, and easy screening as well as education regarding kidney disease. Five fairs were held in a festive atmosphere and a 234 people attended. Of the 234 who attended, 221 participated in screening and of those, 48% had at least one abnormal result, while 7% had at least three abnormal results. There were also three legislators who attended and received education regarding life on dialysis and the need for prevention of the progression of kidney disease.

We also took this opportunity to recognize Greenfield people who had the longest tenure on dialysis. Each received a plaque of recognition by the state legislators. We enjoyed this opportunity to provide this service to the families of our patients and look forward to other education and prevention events. We also greatly appreciate the legislators who took time out of their busy day or sent an equally busy aide to participate and learn important information about kidney disease.