What is Kidney Health 4 Life?

Kidney Health 4 Life is a six-week pilot program conducted as a randomised control trial. The program aims to improve self-management among people living with chronic kidney disease during crucial transition stages. Participants in the intervention group will have access to:

• Online, self-paced modules
• Downloadable resources
• Multimedia tools
• Phone/group coaching
• Ongoing follow-up support upon completion

The control group will have access to existing Kidney Health Australia resources, support, and programs, including the Kidney Helpline, Kidney Buddy Program, the resource hub, and online support groups. At the end of the study, the control group will also be offered access to the Kidney Health 4 Life modules.

Eligibility Criteria

To participate in the program, individuals must meet the following criteria:

Inclusion criteria:

Participants will be adults (aged ≥18) with a diagnosis of CKD, who fit into one of the following groups:

• Individuals who have been diagnosed with early to mid-stage CKD (stages 1-4) in the past 12 months and who are not on dialysis.
• Individuals who have started dialysis within the past 12 months.

Exclusion criteria:

• People who are unable to read and understand English.
• People who do not have access to a computer or other device for completing the online modules and questionnaires.
• People who do not have an email address.
• People who have had prior kidney transplants.
• Participants located outside of Australia.

Why the Pilot Program?

In 2022, Kidney Health Australia commissioned Atlantis Health, a health behaviour change agency, to conduct research on the experience of being diagnosed and treated for kidney disease. The key findings highlighted the following challenges:

1. People living with kidney disease often feel overwhelmed and ill-equipped to manage their diagnosis.
2. Carers feel unsupported and ill-equipped.
3. Clinicians are time-poor and under-resourced.

At Kidney Health Australia, we are committed to creating a supportive and empowering environment for those living with kidney disease. By participating in the Kidney Health 4 Life program, your patients can experience the following benefits:

• Increased knowledge to make informed decisions
• Improved health and well-being
• Practical tools and actions to effectively manage their day-to-day life

How Can You Help?

Kidney Health 4 Life commences on 31 July, and we need your help! If you have patients in your practice or renal unit who may benefit from this program, we would greatly appreciate your referral. We will start accepting referrals via the Kidney Health Professional Hub from 1 June and we will advise when official enrolments commence in the coming weeks.

In the meantime, we invite you to join our Health Professional Hub, where you can access exclusive content, education, news, and the latest research in the field.