Patient Information

 

Patient First Dialysis is founded on the principle that the patients, their families, and their caregivers should be the dialysis center's number one priority. If you or a family member requires the services of an adult hemodialysis center and are in the Gulf Shores area, please consider visiting Patient First Dialysis.

 

You'll experience the highest quality medical care combined with special attention to patients' needs and the challenges faced by their family members and friends who assist them in their treatment. Our policies and procedures combine all the latest treatment protocols and state-of-the-art medical technology with a patient experience crafted from the unique perspective of a former dialysis patient who knows what you are going through from personal experience. 

Patient First Dialysis offers Adult Hemodialysis utilizing 10 state-of-the-art stations equipped with genuine La-Z-Boy Recliners ® and personal video monitors. In addition to offering personalized dialysis services to local residents, we can can provide the same individualized care to area visitors through our Visiting Patient Services program.

 

Dialysis Treatment Inquiry

For Dialysis Treatment within the next 7 days, please call our office at 251-968-2259 or toll free at 800-794-3573. If your appointment is more than a week away, please complete this form in its entirety. Have your destination address and/or zip code available before you begin. Visiting Patient Services appointments require two-week advance scheduling.

 

 

Dialysis Patient Frequently Asked Questions

 

What should I expect at my first dialysis treatment session?

Usually, your doctor makes plans for your first dialysis treatment. You may have even had a few hemodialysis treatments in the hospital. Patient First Dialysis Center is here to provide outpatient adult hemodialysis in an environment that is supportive and encourages full patient and caregiver participation in the treatment plan.

 

For your first dialysis at Patient First, you need an extra 1/2 to 1 hour before and about 1/2 hour after dialysis for such things as signing forms. For example, if your treatment lasts 4 hours, plan to be at the center for about 5 to 6 hours. For subsequent treatments, usually an extra half hour before and after dialysis is all that is necessary.

 

A “Consent for Treatment” form must be signed prior to your first treatment. A staff member will review this form and complete the Patient Information Packet with you and your family member.

 

After a tour of the center, your treatment will begin. Blood is drawn for several tests as part of your first treatment. Our staff will discuss these tests with you and ask that you sign a consent form. Later, your test results will be reviewed with you. The staff will also discuss our non-reuse policy and answer any questions you may have.

For your information, we have included answers to some of the questions most often asked by dialysis patients. If you have a question that is not addressed here, please be sure to ask our staff, give us a call or send an e-mail to info@patientfirstdialysis.com.

 

 

Should I bring anything with me?

Yes, you should definitely plan to bring some of the comfort items that other dialysis patients have told us really improve the experience. You will feel most comfortable if you bring:

• One fitted twin sheet or any size flat sheet
• A small travel pillow
• Earphones for the television
• An extra blanket (one travel blanket is provided)
• A snack (a light snack is provided by the center)
• Gloves (if you experience cold hands)

 

How long does dialysis take?

The length of each person’s dialysis session varies and depends on a number of factors, including your doctor’s orders.  Hemodialysis treatments usually last 3 to 5 hours and are scheduled several times each week.

 

What does dialysis feel like?

It is normal for you to feel concerned about your dialysis treatment, especially the first time. The nurses and technicians providing your care will help to ease these feelings by explaining the process every step of the way. However, no one really knows just what you will feel during treatment. Initially, you may feel a sting or pressure, but once in place you should not feel the needles. Some patients experience other symptoms during dialysis, including an upset stomach, vomiting, dizziness, sweating, chills, shortness of breath, muscle cramps, headache, restlessness, or itching. If you do have any of these symptoms, be sure to let the staff know so they can assess what is going on and make every effort to see that you are comfortable.

 

How will I feel after my first treatment?

Each person reacts differently to their first dialysis treatment. If you feel up to it, you can resume your normal routine following dialysis. It is not unusual for you to feel physically tired and wish to rest. You should start to feel better and more energetic after several dialysis sessions. If you do not feel improvement, please tell your doctor and the Patient First staff member right away.

 

What will my dialysis schedule be? What if I work or I’m in school?

Most hemodialysis patients dialyze 3 times a week, and Patient First Dialysis offers appointments on  Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Every effort is made to accommodate specific patient scheduling needs, so talk with us about what would work best for you. Because a number of patients may prefer the same appointment time and we are limited in the number of patients who can be treated at the same time, it is not always possible. We do try very hard to satisfy everyone and will work out the best possible schedule available.

 

Do I need to bring my medicines with me?

Please do plan to bring all the medicines you are currently taking to your first dialysis Treatment session. You may need to take some medicines while on dialysis and should check with your doctor about that. Also, Patient First Dialysis keeps an accurate medication list for each patient.

 

Can I eat before dialysis?

Eating a large meal before dialysis may make you feel sleepy or even ill. It is advised that you instead eat a snack or light meal at least 2 to 3 hours before your appointment time. Also, plan ahead to have a meal that is easy to fix after you get finished with your dialysis, one that is high enough in calories to make up for what you missed during the day. The dietitian can assist you in making meal plans that are healthy and taste good too.

 

How can I get help if my center is closed?

You should always call your doctor if you have a medical problem. If you have a problem related to your dialysis treatment, call your doctor or contact the staff here at Patient First Dialysis and convey your concerns. Of course, if it is a medical emergency you should call 911 or proceed to the nearest Emergency Room.

 

How will the dialysis center staff know what kind of dialysis I need?

Just as with any other medical treatment, your doctor prescribes your care and the staff at Patient First Dialysis will provide the care as directed by your doctor. Plan to continue to schedule regular appointments to see your doctor at his or her office after starting dialysis treatment.

 

What activities can I do during dialysis?

Most patients like to do many of the same things they would do during “down time” at home, such as watching television, reading a book or magazine, completing a crossword puzzle or sleeping. A  wireless network is provided should you wish to bring an internet device to use. Also, individual television monitors are set up at each treatment station. Even appropriate exercise is an activity you can undertake during your dialysis; ask a staff member if you are interested.

 

What should I wear to my dialysis appointment?

Wear comfortable, washable clothes without buckles, and avoid tops with
buttons down the back. Loose or short sleeves are best because staff take
your blood pressure many times. Many people feel cool while on dialysis so
you may want to bring a blanket.

 

What happens after my first treatment?

The Patient First social worker will be working with you to develop a long-term care plan and that plan is reviewed twice a year. It’s kind of a progress report on how you are doing on dialysis. And while you can use that as an opportunity to discuss any needed changes, don’t forget that you can talk about any needed changes at any time. Your care plan can be changed at any time should your needs and wishes change. Remember, patients come first!

 

Can I drive to my appointment?

That depends on you. Definitely make plans for someone to drive you home from your dialysis treatments for at least the first week. Some patients feel weak and a little unsteady after their first few treatments, and you will need to see how treatment affects you. After you become more accustomed to dialysis, you may feel able to drive. Your safety and comfort are key, and if you have a problem arranging transportation to or from dialysis, be sure to let your social worker know as soon as possible; alternative travel options may be available.

 

Who pays for dialysis treatment and what are my financial obligations?

Hemodialysis is a medically necessary treatment for patients experiencing End Stage Renal Disease, more commonly known as kidney failure. The majority of dialysis costs are paid through medical insurance — either your own insurance or the government-sponsored Medicare program.

 

If Medicare is the primary payer, Patient First will bill Medicare directly.

 

MEDICARE ASSIGNMENT IS ACCEPTED. Annual, deductibles and the remaining 20% not covered by Medicare for treatments, non-routine medications, and other allowed services are the responsibility of the patient. Patient First Dialysis will bill a secondary payer for patients staying over one month. Patients dialyzing less than one month will be required to pay any deductibles and the estimated 20% in advance.

 

Patient First Dialysis also accepts most Primary and Secondary insurance plans such as Employer Sponsored Group Health Plans and will process claims for billing. You will be advised of available coverage and any anticipated out-of-pocket expenses and can be assured that your social worker will be working with you to help identify any resources to assist you financially during your care at Patient First Dialysis.

 

For Foreign Patients, Patient First requires payment in advance for treatments, medications, anticipated lab and other services. An itemized statement will be provided at the end of the month for insurance purposes.