ESRD Network 18 - Quality Improvement Project

Lab Data Collection Project is conducted annually and it is previously known as E-Lab. This project requires collecting patient-specific data for both hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis patients for the last quarter of the previous calendar year. The data collection included clinical indicators pertaining to anemia management, dialysis adequacy, and bone metabolism. This yearly exercise allows the Network to collect clinical indicator data from 100% of facilities and later provide each facility with a report, comparing their results with the Network’s performance. Each facility’s results are compared against the CMS goals and Network goals. Based on these results the Quality Improvement staff develops targeted facility-specific activities. Data collection methods include electronic data transfer from Large Dialysis Organizations (LDOs) such as DaVita and FMC and manual data collection from Independent dialysis providers (non-LDOs). Data is collected manually from all participating non-LDO facilities in hard copy format or on diskette. After all the data is entered into the system, one large Excel file is created for the Network, which is electronically transferred to Network 11 for further analysis by University of Minnesota statisticians.

Our Mission

To provide leadership and assistance to renal dialysis and transplant facilities in a manner that supports continuous improvement in patient care, outcomes, safety and satisfaction.

Quality Improvement Project

To provide leadership and assistance to renal dialysis and transplant facilities in a manner
that supports continuous improvement in patient care, outcomes, safety and satisfaction.