Transforming Kidney Care: Insights from the 2024 ANZSN Conference Ashton Kline
Date: September 1, 2024
Adelaide Convention Centre, Adelaide
The Australian & New Zealand Society of Nephrology (ANZSN) annual conference is a pivotal event in the nephrology calendar, bringing together leading experts, researchers, and advocates in kidney care. This year, the conference held on September 1st, 2024, at the Adelaide Convention Centre, provided a dynamic platform for sharing innovative ideas and advancing the future of kidney care. I had the privilege of speaking at this gathering, focusing on a critical yet often overlooked perspective: transforming kidney care from a carer’s viewpoint.
Bridging the Gap in Kidney Care
In my presentation, I highlighted the unique challenges and invaluable contributions of carers in the kidney care ecosystem. Carers, who often work behind the scenes, play a crucial role in supporting patients through their treatment journeys. Yet, their experiences and insights are sometimes overshadowed in broader discussions about kidney care advancements.
The theme of my talk was the transformation of kidney care through the lens of those who provide day-to-day support. The goal was to bring to light the essential role that carers play and to advocate for more inclusive and holistic approaches in the care and support of kidney patients.
Key Takeaways from the Presentation
- Carer-Centric Approaches: We explored how integrating carer perspectives into care planning can lead to more tailored and effective patient outcomes. By involving carers in decision-making processes and treatment planning, we can ensure that care is not only patient-centered but also family-focused.
- Training and Support for Carers: Effective kidney care requires robust support systems for carers. I emphasised the need for specialised training programs that equip carers with the skills and knowledge they need to manage the complexities of kidney care. Additionally, providing emotional and psychological support to carers is crucial for maintaining their well-being and effectiveness.
- Technology and Innovation: The advent of new technology offers exciting possibilities for enhancing carer support. From telehealth consultations to remote monitoring systems, these tools can help carers stay informed and involved in their loved one’s care without the need for constant physical presence. We discussed how these technologies can be better integrated into the care model to ease the burden on carers.
- Policy and Advocacy: Advocacy for policy changes that recognise and support carers is essential. By voicing the needs and challenges faced by carers, we can drive policy changes that provide financial, educational, and emotional support. This, in turn, can lead to a more sustainable and compassionate care system.
Looking Forward
The feedback from the conference was overwhelmingly positive, with many attendees expressing appreciation for shining a light on the often-unseen role of carers. The dialogue generated by this presentation underscores a growing recognition of the need for a more inclusive approach to kidney care.
As we move forward, it is crucial to continue fostering collaboration between patients, carers, and healthcare professionals. By working together, we can create a care model that not only addresses the medical needs of patients but also supports and empowers those who stand by their side.
The ANZSN conference served as a powerful reminder of the collective effort required to advance kidney care. I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute not only as a carer and representative of DATA but also as a Registered Nurse and Senior Lecturer in Nursing to this important conversation and look forward to seeing continued progress in transforming kidney care from all perspectives.
A huge thank you to DATA for supporting my travel costs and attendance at the conference, Together, we can make a significant difference in the lives of patients and carers alike.
Ashton Kline – DATA Committee Member – Dialysis and Transplant Association of Victoria