Throughout your entire kidney transplant process, your Cleveland Clinic Transplant Team ensures you receive the best possible care. Members of the team are there each step of the way to guide you, outline what you can expect and answer any questions you may have along the way.
- Your medical care will be monitored by a board-certified nephrologist, and a kidney disease specialist who has training and experience in caring for kidney transplant patients.
- Cleveland Clinic differs from other hospitals because a board-certified urologic surgeon, who has specialty training and experience in kidney transplantation, will perform your surgery, rather than a general surgeon. Upon your arrival, the urologic surgeon will meet with you to review the procedure and answer your questions.
- Your kidney transplant coordinator is a registered nurse who serves as your contact throughout the transplant process.
- Your social worker is available throughout the kidney transplant process to help you and your family identify and evaluate the problems and needs associated with your illness. Your social worker can provide services such as education, counseling regarding lifestyle changes, referrals to community agencies and any other help you may need.
- Your financial coordinator will be able to answer any questions you or a potential donor may have about insurance coverage and Medicare benefits related to surgery and care.
- After surgery, physicians and nurses who are transplant specialists will closely monitor your progress in our Transplant Special Care Unit.
- You will be assigned a nursing care manager who will work alongside the nursing staff to educate you and your family about the new medications you will be taking and help prepare you for life after a kidney transplant.
- Your nutritionist will work closely with you and your physician to determine the best diet for your needs.
- Your kidney transplant team is available to provide additional information after you return home. The team will also be available to assist you with your follow-up care, which includes routine blood testing, medication evaluation and adaptation, and visits to ensure you and your transplanted kidney continue to do well.