How to Choose a Dialysis Center: Quality, Location, and Fit

Start with CMS quality measures

Every Medicare-certified center has public quality data: a 1-5 star rating, patient survival and hospitalization vs expected, the standardized infection ratio (SIR), Kt/V adequacy, and long-term catheter use. Use them to compare centers in your area on a level field.

The star rating is a summary — dig into the components. A center with high survival but high catheter use tells a different story than one with balanced measures. The dialysis center directory on this site shows these per facility.

Location and logistics

Three sessions a week means travel time becomes part of the treatment. Consider distance, parking, and how the schedule fits work and family. For home options — home hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis — the training burden and home suitability replace the commute.

Check which modalities the center offers: in-center HD, PD, and home-HD training. A center with PD/home programs gives you future flexibility that an HD-only unit doesn't.

The visit matters

Tour the center and ask: who runs your care team, how are urgent issues handled, how do they track adequacy, what is the insurance acceptance, and can you talk to a current patient. Observe the staff-to-patient ratio and the overall feel — you'll be there three times a week.

Bring your questions about scheduling flexibility, emergency coverage, and how the center coordinates with your nephrologist and dietitian.

Dialysis & Treatment

US Kidney Care & Costs