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 has reduced reimbursement to health care providers by two percent for patients with Medicaid primary and secondary insurance.  While this will not directly impact patients’ insurance coverage, DPC is concerned about the impact this might have in rural areas of the state where there is an increased possibility that facilities will be forced to cut services or close down.

North Carolina Dialysis Patient Resources

#6 Southeastern Kidney Council
1000 St. Albans Drive Suite 270
Raleigh, NC  27609
1-800-524-7139

North Carolina Dept of  Medical Assistance
1-800-662-7030
Wake County
1-919-855-4400

• Adult Programs: Insurance program for low-income individuals, seniors, blind, disabled, and families who cannot afford health care costs.
• Programs for Children: North Carolina Health Choice (NCHC) for Children is a free or reduced price comprehensive health care program for children.