Seasonal Differences in Home Dialysis Uptake and Initiating Dialysis in the Hospital

Seasonal Differences in Home Dialysis Uptake and Initiating Dialysis in the Hospital

This study will investigate whether home dialysis uptake varies by the season of year. We will also investigate whether hospitalizations around the time of dialysis also vary by season of year and whether hospitalizations are associated with reduced home dialysis starts and sustained home dialysis uptake.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Started dialysis in the USA for end-stage kidney disease from 12/1/2007-11/30/2017
• No transplant or death prior to day 90 of dialysis
• Medicare Parts A/B as primary payer 30 days prior to starting dialysis
• Valid Medicare Evidence Form (Form 2728)

Exclusion Criteria:

• As above