Developing Nephrology Programs in Low Resource Settings

Abstract

Development of effective nephrology programs in low-income settings requires a comprehensive approach, spanning all components of the health system. Good governance and financing decisions are crucial facilitators of this process and are necessary for transparent and equitable policy development, public education, prioritization of renal disease within the health agenda, and to balance budgetary requirements and opportunity costs. Robust health information systems are necessary to provide evidence for rational policy development, to track the processes of care, monitor costs and evaluate program implementation. A nephrology program cannot function without a well trained and engaged health workforce ranging from trained specialists to lay community health workers and traditional healers. Ensuring equitable access to medications, technologies and clinical care are central to service delivery for effective screening, prevention and kidney disease management. Integration of nephrology care with that of other chronic diseases promises to be an efficient and effective mode of implementation.