Medicare, a federal program, pays for dialysis for over 80% of dialysis treatments. However, many issues concerning dialysis patients are actually handled at the state level.

Individual states have to provide certain basic services under Medicaid, but they also have flexibility in how they structure their plans and set their reimbursement rates. In addition, some states have the authority to determine the need and location for additional dialysis facilities (this is often referred to as certificate of need). Because dialysis patients’ care can be affected by state officials as well as federal officials, DPC members are becoming more active on state issues—ensuring the patients’ voice is heard locally as well as nationally.

2011 Medicaid Update
The state is proposing an ESRD bundled reimbursement system for providers who care for patients covered by Medicaid solely. The state MART transportation system has made great improvements for transportation for dialysis patients.

Massachusets Dialysis Patient Resources

National Kidney Foundation of New England
This foundation has a grant to assist patients who have kidney disease or are transplant recipients with a variety of needs.
1-800-542-4001

The Kidney Transplant/Dialysis Association, Inc. (KT/DA)
The KT/DA provides direct financial aid to needy kidney patients and donors in New England.
1-781-641-4000

#1 Network of New England
30 Hazel Terrace
Woodbridge, CT  06525
1-203-387-9332

The Kidney Transplant/Dialysis Association, Inc.
P.O. Box 51362 GMF
Boston, MA 02205-1362

MassHealth (Office of Medicaid)
1-888-665-9993

• Adult Programs: provides comprehensive health insurance—or help in paying for private health insurance
• Programs for Children: The Children's Medical Security Plan (CMSP) is a basic health insurance program offered by the Executive Office of Health and Human Services for Massachusetts children and teens under the age of 19 years.
• Medication Programs: Prescription Advantage Prescription drug insurance plan for Mass seniors and disabled individuals of any age who meet certain guidelines.