Ten tips on how to manage kidney health in migrants and refugees

Abstract

The number of forcibly displaced people worldwide continues to rise each year due to armed conflicts, human rights violations and natural disasters. Many others migrate in search of better living conditions. People with chronic kidney disease, particularly those requiring kidney replacement therapy, are especially vulnerable during displacement. Preparedness is crucial to minimize risks for these patients. Education and training provided in the pre-disaster period may raise patients' resilience and improve outcomes. Local or national kidney disaster relief task forces could help coordinate evacuation efforts and care for migrant patients, ensuring collaboration among stakeholders. While providing high-quality kidney care is essential, challenges such as healthcare costs, reimbursement issues, and social or cultural barriers may limit access in host countries. It is also critical to address the psychological needs of displaced people. Caring for displaced patients raises ethical concerns, leading to moral distress and burnout among healthcare providers. Collaborative efforts to address these challenges are essential to ensure the best outcomes for both displaced individuals and host countries.