National Kidney Disease Education Program.

The predicted increase in the number of people with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) places an enormous burden on healthcare providers and the Medicare system. Recognizing this problem led the Council of American Kidney Societies to conceive, develop, and implement the National Kidney Disease Education Program (NKDEP). It was decided to aim the program at both patients and primary care providers in an attempt to halt the relentless increase in the numbers of patients with ESRD. The development of straightforward targets for therapy and screening are a goal of the NKDEP. The strategic plan of the program calls for all those at high risk of developing ESRD to seek testing. Working groups are currently addressing the components of the plan and are actively developing messages and guidance for target audiences. The NKDEP aims to reduce the incidence of ESRD. Even though the results may not come quickly, it is hoped that ESRD mortality can be reduced over the coming years.