End-Stage Renal Disease (“ESRD”) is the stage of advanced kidney impairment that requires continued dialysis treatments or a kidney transplant to sustain life. Dialysis is the removal of toxins, fluids and salt from the blood of ESRD patients by artificial means. There are approximately 525,000 ESRD patients in the U.S., with only 5% receiving transplants each year. The vast majority of patients suffering from ESRD generally require dialysis at least three times per week for the rest of their lives.
ESRD is among the most expensive chronic medical conditions facing patients and health Plans. The average monthly charges for each ESRD patient is $37,000 for our clients. It is not unusual for monthly charges to exceed $50,000. Not surprising in a market where approximately 60% of all patients are treated by just two large provider organizations.
