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Securing the future of kidney transplantation by addressing the challenges of transplant nephrology
Author(s) -
Heher Eliot C.,
Hricik Donald E.,
Brennan Daniel C.
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
american journal of transplantation
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.89
H-Index - 188
eISSN - 1600-6143
pISSN - 1600-6135
DOI - 10.1111/ajt.16264
Subject(s) - subspecialty , medicine , nephrology , intensive care medicine , transplantation , kidney transplantation , workforce , health care , promotion (chess) , family medicine , politics , political science , law , economics , economic growth
Kidney transplant is a life‐changing procedure, and transplant nephrologists, as part of a larger transplant team, play an important role in the field by managing the complex medical needs of transplant patients. The subspecialty of transplant nephrology, however, faces structural challenges related to its workforce, reporting structures, compensation, research and innovation, and health care information technology. The position of transplant nephrology at the academic and operational intersection of medicine and surgery may limit its access to critical resources, hinder academic promotion, and contribute to physician burnout. The authors provide an overview of the subspecialty transplant nephrology and propose solutions. Collaborative efforts that fortify the subspecialty of transplant nephrology will ultimately improve the lives of patients suffering from kidney disease.