You were just diagnosed with chronic kidney disease and need dialysis. You may wonder how that impacts your daily life, including your employment.
At Innovative Renal Care, we understand the importance of maintaining a fulfilling lifestyle, including employment, for individuals undergoing dialysis treatment.
Many people wonder whether it’s possible to work while managing dialysis and how to navigate the challenges that may arise.
To learn more about potential lifestyle modifications while on dialysis, contact us today or continue reading for valuable insights into employment considerations for CKD patients.
Is Chronic Kidney Disease a Disability?
The short answer is “possibly.”
If someone has chronic kidney disease (CKD), they might be considered disabled if the condition impairs their ability to do essential things in life, like work.
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) protects people with disabilities from being mistreated in different parts of life, including at work. If CKD makes it tough for someone to do everyday tasks like walking, standing, lifting, or focusing, they might be considered disabled under the ADA.
CKD can also cause other health problems that make it even harder to work, like feeling tired a lot, trouble thinking clearly, or heart issues. If this happens, the person might be able to get special help at work to make things easier for them.
It’s essential for individuals with CKD who are experiencing difficulties at work due to their condition to explore their rights under the ADA and other relevant laws. Seeking guidance from healthcare professionals, specialists, or disability advocacy organizations can help individuals understand their options and access necessary support and accommodations.
Can You Work While on Dialysis?
Yes, many people can work while undergoing dialysis treatment, but it depends on various factors, such as their overall health, job type, and treatment schedule.
For some individuals, continuing to work while on dialysis is possible and can provide a sense of normalcy and purpose. However, it’s essential to consider the job’s demands, the physical and mental stamina required, and the flexibility to accommodate dialysis sessions and medical appointments.
Open communication with the healthcare team and the employer is crucial for individuals considering working while on dialysis. This allows for assessing the individual’s capabilities, developing a manageable treatment schedule, and implementing any necessary accommodations in the workplace.
The Best Jobs For Dialysis Patients
Certain types of employment may be more suitable for individuals undergoing dialysis, considering factors such as flexibility, physical demands, and access to healthcare benefits.
Jobs that offer remote work options, flexible scheduling, and accommodations for medical needs can provide greater flexibility for dialysis patients.
Additionally, careers in healthcare, customer service, administrative support, and information technology may offer opportunities for individuals with chronic health conditions to thrive in the workplace.
Get Professional Advice for Working While on Dialysis With Us
Navigating employment while managing dialysis treatment requires careful planning and support from experienced professionals.
Whether you’re considering entering the workforce, seeking accommodations, or facing challenges related to working while on dialysis, we’re here to provide personalized guidance and support every step of the way.
Contact us today to learn more about our comprehensive patient resources for working individuals with kidney disease.
Informed patients are healthier and can more easily adjust to the restrictions associated with having a chronic disease.
Learn More About Treatment Options:
Home Hemodialysis
Very similar to in-center dialysis, but the patient, along with a care partner, are trained to perform the dialysis treatment at home.
Peritoneal dialysis (PD)
A needle-free approach that uses a patient’s abdomen as a filter and gives patients the freedom to perform the procedure at home or in other suitable locations. Our staff provide specialized training so you can perform PD.
Nocturnal dialysis
Nocturnal dialysis gives patients the option to have dialysis treatments at night. These treatments are done at the dialysis clinic, and many patients will sleep there overnight while being dialyzed.
“You’ll never find the quality of care that you get at an ARA facility anywhere else. The staff always have your best interest at heart and will go out of their way to make you feel comfortable and help however they can. The truth is, I consider them my extended family!”
Mr. Randal Beatty, University Kidney Center Hikes Lane, Louisville, KY
