The American Association of Kidney Patients (AAKP) is the oldest and largest, independent kidney patient organization in the U.S. – AAKP is dedicated to improving the lives and long-term outcome of kidney patients through education, advocacy, patient engagement and the fostering of patient communities. AAKP fights for early detection; increased kidney transplantation and pre-emptive transplantation; full patient choice of either in-center or home dialysis; protection of the patient/physician relationship; promotion of research and innovation; and the elimination of barriers for patient access to available treatment options. At AAKP we….

1. Educate: patients & caregivers on important issues so patients can better understand their condition and make informed decisions on their care options which align with their lives aspirations. AAKP is a recognized leader for patient-centered education – continually developing high quality, professionally written, edited and reviewed material.

1. Advocate: for policies that improve treatment and extend life for kidney disease patients – always defending patient choice. AAKP has been the independent patient voice – advocating for improved access to high-quality healthcare through regulatory and legislative reform at the Federal level. The Association’s work has improved long-term outcomes in both quality of health and the ability for patients and family members affected by kidney diseases to lead a more productive and meaningful life.

1. Define: “patient engagement” as a substantive tool to impact policy & health outcomes.

1. Community: AAKP is leading the effort to bring kidney patients together to promote community, conversations and to seek out services that help maximize patients’ everyday lives.