How to Find Dialysis Centers While Traveling

Dialysis treatments shouldn't stop you from traveling. There are more than 3,292 dialysis centers in the United States and many more throughout the world.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Maps
• Computers

1. Go to the Nephron Information Center's Web site to find dialysis centers by state (nephron.com/statesinfo.html), if you will be traveling in the United States.
2. Check out the ESRD Network list (esrdnetworks.org), which also provides e-mail addresses and phone numbers for dialysis centers throughout the United States.
3. Call STC Dialysis Travel and Vacation at [phone] if you're shopping for a vacation outside the United States. The company offers dialysis patients vacations to Hawaii, Mexico, the South Pacific, Canada, Europe and the United States.
4. See the GlobalDialysis.com, which lists dialysis centers worldwide and information for dialysis patients who want to travel, including directories of specialist travel agents, travel insurance and cruises that cater specifically for dialysis patients.
5. Ask your medical social workers to provide your medical information to the facility you choose. They'll need a recent history, physical, dialysis record, orders, and current hepatitis status. Some facilities require that forms be filled out in advance. Your social workers should also be able to work out insurance details.

Tips & Warnings

• If you have any questions or concerns, contact a physician or other health care professional before engaging in any activity related to health and diet. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.