U.S. National Library of Medicine

Introduction to Health Services Research : A Self-Study Course

Case 2. The End-Stage Renal Disease Program: Quality Issues (Page 1 of 34)

Research Case Description

The End-Stage Renal Disease Program (ESRD), established in 1972 and administered by CMS (formerly HCFA), provides Medicare funding for dialysis to all persons with end-stage renal disease (kidney failure).

This program embodies the characteristics of a universal health care plan: full access, tax supported, freedom of choice of providers, and portability from one job to another. It will be your responsibility to evaluate both quality of care and quality of life issues in this research case.

All people with particular medical needs related to their kidney disease are guaranteed care regardless of their socioeconomic and financial status.

The following Case background, objectives and exercise will help you think about the project.

• Start here for the Case background
• Start here for the Case objectives
• Go directly to the Case exercise