Quick Tip:

Many people with kidney disease don't know they have it.

 

1 in 8 adult Americans will develop kidney disease in their lifetimes.

  
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Frequently Asked Questions about Support Services

What services are available to help me and my family?


The Social Services Department helps patients and family members adjust to the changes and stresses created by chronic kidney failure and its treatments. Services are available to all NKC patients regardless of their treatment location or method (pre-dialysis, dialysis, or transplantation). Social workers work in each NKC center on a regularly scheduled basis.

Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Evening appointments with social workers can be arranged. Staff is on-call for emergency situations. Call (206) 292-2774.

Phone: (206) 292-2771

Location: Haviland Kidney Center, 700 Broadway, 4th floor


What kind of training do Northwest Kidney Centers counselors have?

All NKC social workers have a Masters degree in social work (MSW) and have training in psychology, crisis intervention, and counseling. Also, we offer special skills in helping people cope with medical problems and health care systems. All of our social workers are Registered Counselors through the Washington State Division of Professional Licensing.

What information do I need to get started?

Before you start treatment, your social worker will meet with you to discuss the Northwest Kidney Centers -- how we operate and how our staff can help you. Included in this conversation is information about:
• Your treatment choices -- hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis, and transplantation.
• Home dialysis and its advantages.
• NKC treatment centers.
• NKC support services.
• NKC policies, and patient rights and responsibilities.
• The emotional and social changes people may experience when beginning treatment for kidney failure.

During this first meeting, your social worker asks for basic social information needed for your medical record. You also talk about any special needs or concerns you may have that relate to starting treatment.

Who do I call for help with scheduling or applications for aid?

At times, you may have problems or concerns that you do not know how to handle on your own. These issues may relate directly to your health problems, such as transportation or dialysis scheduling. They may also relate indirectly to your health concerns such as an application for a government program or getting help at home. Your social worker can point you in the right direction or help you solve these problems.

I feel overwhelmed. Who can help?

Dialysis and kidney transplants usually require social and emotional adjustments. There may be times when you feel troubled or even overwhelmed by feelings and problems about your personal or treatment issues. Sometimes you may need someone other than your family and friends to talk with or to listen to you. In fact, family and friends are affected, too, and may need help in dealing with the changes in their lives. Social workers provide supportive counseling, one-on-one or in groups, to help you and your loved ones deal with:
• Depression.
• Feelings of loss and grief.
• Anxiety about treatment.
• Physical changes and limitations.
• Marriage and family problems.
• Sexual concerns.
• Self-esteem and body image.
• Job issues.

Your NKC social worker is always here to help you and your loved ones adjust to life with chronic kidney failure. We are here to support you in living your best life ever. Feel free to contact us at any time with your questions and concerns.