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DTX41: DialysisTechConneXion41

Concurrent Sessions - Wednesday

March 25 28, 2024

New Technology

Key Technical Leaders

Tom Allocco, Senior Vice President of Technical Services, US Renal Care

Ted Kasparek, DaVita

Brooks Rogers, Fresenius Medical Care

Tyler Wehrum, Bio-Medical Technician III - Regional Float, Technical Services, Fresenius Kidney Care

Factors that Drive New Technology

Zane Greear, Sr Director Technical Methods and Systems, Fresenius Medical Care

Shannon Matthews, Sr Director Technical Services, Fresenius Medical Care

Inputs to New Products: Voice of the Customer

Heidi Cha, Product Manager - Renal Care Line, Mesa Labs

Nikki Dempsey, Global Sales Manager - Renal Care, Mesa Labs

Join us for a dynamic session where we will explore the crucial role of customer feedback in the development of innovative dialysis technology products. Tailored specifically for dialysis technicians, this session will empower you with the knowledge and insights needed to contribute effectively to the creation of new products that address the unique needs of CKD dialysis patients. Don't miss out on this assertive and concise opportunity to enhance your understanding of the customer's voice and its significance in shaping the future of dialysis technology.

Adapting to and Working With New Technology

Keep Calm & Comply

First Impressions DO Count

Jennifer Vavrinchik, MSN, RN, CNN, Principal, Chief Operating OfficerNational Dialysis Accreditation Commission

Melissa Peden, Biomedical Technician, Fresenius Medical Care

Join us for an empowering session as we delve into the art of creating a positive and lasting impression on surveyors. We will explore the critical factors that surveyors take note of the moment they walk through your front door. By understanding their perspective, you can proactively shape their impression and lay the foundation for a successful survey. You will learn daily routines and practices that will help you maintain a survey-ready environment at all times. Don't underestimate the power of first impressions; they truly do count.

Unlock the Key to Survey Readiness with Ready.Set.Survey

Gail Dewald, Nephrology Nurse

Learn about NANT's groundbreaking mini-webinar series, Ready.Set.Survey, designed for dialysis personnel. In this comprehensive program, we will equip you with the essential knowledge and skills to ensure your clinic is always prepared for surveyors, no matter when they arrive. With 15 concise modules, each under 15 minutes, Ready.Set.Survey enables you to effortlessly absorb crucial information during those rare quiet moments between patient treatments. Our expert instructors will guide you through the intricacies of survey readiness, empowering you to proactively address potential challenges and elevate the standard of care at your clinic or company. Discover this cutting-edge educational tool, tailor-made for use in dialysis clinics scheduled to be surveyed. Don't miss this opportunity to arrange seamless access for all your technicians, fostering a culture of continuous learning and growth within your organization. **Meeting Surveyor Expectations: Performance Under Pressure**

Curt Anliker, Chief Executive Officer, National Dialysis Accreditation Commission

Tracey Milligan, Team SOS Sr.Director, DaVita

Denise Wright, VP Clinical Services Initiatives, Fresenius Medical Care

As the demand for surveys surges post-pandemic, the need to minimize Immediate Jeopardy instances and achieve deficiency-free surveys is paramount for all dialysis providers. Technicians like you play a pivotal role in realizing these goals. Preparation is key, but facing surveyors can be nerve-wracking. Learn invaluable insights from esteemed dialysis managers responsible for surveys in their organizations. Discover how to deliver your best performance in high-pressure situations, ensuring optimal outcomes. **Compliance Busters: : Unmasking the Dialysis Survey Secrets**

Gail Dewald, Nephrology Nurse

Roshunda Trody, Concerto Renal Service

Calling all dialysis technicians, it's time to put on your detective hats and join us for a thrilling session of "Compliance Busters"! Get ready to embark on an interactive journey where you'll be armed with yellow and red flags to flag suspicious situations that could make or break your dialysis unit's survey success.

In this session, we'll present you with a wide range of photos, each depicting a different scenario. Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to use your keen eye and knowledge to identify the setups that would leave surveyors scratching their heads. Will you be quick on your feet and spot the almost acceptable situations? Or will you skillfully pinpoint the ones that are truly not appropriate?

But wait, there's more! As a valued participant, you'll have the opportunity to be one of the first to cast your vote using your trusty flags. Let your voice be heard as we engage in a friendly competition to see who can outwit their fellow technicians. Who knows, you might just uncover some surprising revelations along the way!

This completely interactive session is the perfect chance to put your knowledge to the test. Show off what you've learned in previous sessions and prove that you're a compliance champion. With a playful and lighthearted atmosphere, we guarantee you'll have a blast while sharpening your skills.

Home Dialysis

Unlocking Opportunities: How to Grow Home Dialysis Program

Michelle Carver, Chief Nursing Officer, Senior Vice President Nursing and Clinical Services, Vascular Manager, Fresenius Medical Care

Shantell Dixon, Office of the Chief Nursing Officer – Senior Manager, DaVita Kidney Care

Ray Tamadon, PCTIII Preceptor, Vascular Manager, Fresenius Home Dialysis

Are you ready to make a difference in the future of dialysis care? Join us for a session that dives deep into the strategies and techniques for growing a successful home dialysis program. In this session, we will explore the exciting possibilities that come with expanding home dialysis programs. As the industry strives to achieve the goal of having 25% of dialysis patients receiving care at home by 2025, dialysis technicians play a crucial role in making this vision a reality. We will examine the unique challenges and opportunities that come with growing a home dialysis program. Gain valuable insights and practical tips on how you can contribute to achieving the ambitious target of 25% of dialysis patients receiving care in the comfort of their own homes. How to talk to Patients about Home Dialysis and Why: The Technician Perspective

Michael Aragon, Cheif Medical Officer, Outset Medical

Michael Chambers, PCT3, Fresenius Medical Care

Michael Kraus, Associate Chief Medical Officer, Fresenius Kidney Care

Join us for a transformative session delving into the pivotal role of the dialysis technician in patient care. As the linchpin of the CKD patient healthcare team, technicians spend unparalleled time with patients, garnering their trust and emerging as the most valued source of dialysis knowledge. In this session, we will equip you with the indispensable tools and skills needed to communicate effectively with your patients about the myriad benefits of home dialysis. Discover how to navigate the intricacies of this crucial conversation, enabling patients to make informed decisions about their treatment options. With patients rating technicians as their primary source of information on their dialysis journey, your ability to educate and answer their questions is paramount. Learn strategies to articulate the advantages of home dialysis, dispel misconceptions, and address concerns that patients may have. By empowering patients with knowledge and understanding, you will enhance their quality of life and foster a collaborative partnership in their care. Can I Go Home?

Michael Aragon, Cheif Medical Officer, Outset Medical

Michael Chambers, PCT3, Fresenius Medical Care

Michael Kraus, Associate Chief Medical Officer, Fresenius Kidney Care

Technicians play a vital role in improving patient care across various dialysis settings. Beyond the confines of traditional in-center hemodialysis (ICHD) clinics, technicians have the power to make a difference in patients' lives. As a dialysis technician, understanding home dialysis will empower you to navigate your professional journey more effectively. Unlock your potential and gain insight into where you can make the greatest impact. Transitioning your Career to Home Dialysis

Michelle Carver, Chief Nursing Officer, Senior Vice President Nursing and Clinical Services, Fresenius Medical Care

Annetta Otis,  Patient Educator, Fresenius Medical Care

Home dialysis is revolutionizing the way patients receive treatment, and the demand for skilled professionals in this area is growing rapidly. By mastering the intricacies of home dialysis, you can position yourself as a highly sought-after expert in the field, opening up a world of opportunities for career advancement and personal fulfillment.

During this session, you will gain invaluable insights into what top managers are looking for in home dialysis professionals. Discover the unique skills and knowledge that will help you advance and make you an invaluable asset in this evolving sector. Learn how to effectively showcase your expertise and experience to secure a rewarding position in home dialysis.