Searching for new care models for chronic kidney disease.

Chronic kidney disease is associated with increased death risk. The estimated size of this high-risk population is too large for effective care to be delivered by nephrologists alone and will require models of care delivery that include partnerships with primary-care physicians and incorporate physician extenders. Studies show that some of these care models provide outcomes similar to those seen with nephrologists as sole providers; whether they are cost-effective or improve satisfaction with care remains to be demonstrated.