Benefits of short daily home hemodialysis in the FREEDOM Study: Is it about person, place, time, or treatment

Abstract

Many end-stage renal disease patients receive thrice-weekly hemodialysis (HD) and report impairments in health-related quality of life (HRQOL). Recent studies indicate that short daily HD may improve HRQOL. High-quality studies exploring the burdens and costs to patients, caregivers, and society are necessary before widespread adoption can be advocated. Further research exploring the mechanisms by which these benefits are realized is also important, as many patients are likely to opt out of short daily HD. © 2012 International Society of Nephrology.