Living with kidney disease can be a challenging journey, requiring constant monitoring
and medical care. In-person visits with health care professionals are crucial in managing
the condition effectively. As a former peritoneal dialysis and in-center hemodialysis
patient currently living with a kidney transplant since April 2017, I have experienced
firsthand the advantages and disadvantages of in-person visits for people with kidney
disease. This article will explore these benefits and limitations, highlighting the
significance of in-person visits in patients' lives.
Advantages of In-Person Visits
Personalized care: In-person visits allow health care professionals to holistically
assess patients' overall health, physical symptoms, and mental well-being. This personalized
approach enables tailored treatment plans and interventions that address individual
needs effectively.
Physical examination: A substantial advantage of in-person visits is the ability of
health care professionals to conduct comprehensive physical examinations. This includes
checking for signs of fluid retention, palpating the abdomen for tenderness, measuring
BP, and examining the transplantation site (for patients who underwent transplant).
These examinations provide valuable insights into the patient's condition and inform
necessary adjustments to their treatment plan. It also allows me to get a better understanding
by asking questions either during or after the examination regarding my examination
results. There are too many limitations to personalized care by using telehealth or
a virtual consultation.
Direct communication: Face-to-face interactions facilitate more transparent and direct
communication between patients and health care professionals. Patients can express
their concerns, ask questions, and receive immediate feedback and guidance. This direct
engagement strengthens the patient–provider relationship and fosters trust, leading
to better adherence to treatment protocols.
Emotional support: Living with kidney disease can take an emotional toll on patients,
and in-person visits offer an opportunity to seek emotional support from health care
professionals. These visits provide a safe space to discuss fears, anxieties, and
psychological challenges associated with the condition. If necessary, health care
professionals can offer reassurance, coping strategies, and referrals to mental health
resources.
Limitations of In-Person Visits
Accessibility and travel: In-person visits may pose challenges for patients living
in remote areas or those with limited access to transportation. Traveling to health
care facilities regularly can be physically demanding and financially burdensome,
especially for individuals with limited mobility or financial resources. Another consideration
is the toll it takes some kidney patients to find a parking space, walk, or use a
mobility device to get to the medical facility and the added stress of being able
to afford to pay for parking.
Exposure to infections: Health care facilities are potential sources of infections,
and patients with compromised immune systems, such as those with kidney disease, are
more susceptible to acquiring infections. As observed during the recent pandemic,
in-person visits increase the risk of exposure to contagious diseases, including seasonal
flu or novel viruses like coronavirus disease 2019.
Time constraints: In-person visits often require patients to take time off work or
other commitments, leading to potential disruptions in their daily routines. This
can be incredibly challenging for individuals who depend on employment for financial
stability or those with caregiving responsibilities. This can be highly taxing on
single parents and those who lack a support system to assist them during their in-person
visits or provide childcare while at their appointments.
The Significance of In-Person Visits
In-person visits play a vital role in the holistic care of patients with kidney disease.
While telemedicine and virtual consultations have recently gained popularity, they
cannot fully replace the value of face-to-face interactions. In-person visits allow
health care professionals to conduct thorough physical examinations, assess patients'
overall well-being, and provide personalized care tailored to individual needs. Furthermore,
these visits foster direct communication, enabling patients to seek emotional support
and guidance, increasing patient satisfaction and better treatment adherence.
Nevertheless, it is essential to acknowledge the limitations of in-person visits,
such as accessibility challenges, exposure to infections, and time constraints. As
health care systems evolve, efforts should be made to address these limitations by
offering alternative solutions, including telemedicine services, transportation assistance
programs, and extended clinic hours.
In conclusion, in-person visits remain a cornerstone of care for patients with kidney
disease. The benefits of personalized care, comprehensive physical examinations, direct
communication, and emotional support outweigh the limitations associated with accessibility
and potential exposure to infections. Striking a balance between in-person visits
and advancements in telemedicine can ensure that patients receive the most effective
and comprehensive care possible, empowering them to live healthier lives despite the
challenges.