DaVita Inc. (NYSE: DVA), a leading provider of kidney care services that is committed to improving the quality of life for those diagnosed with chronic kidney disease (CKD), today thanks its nearly 1,500 social workers for the value and care they provide to patients and their families.    

The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) designated March as National Social Work Month, recognizing March 16^th as National Social Work Day and March 20^thas World Social Work Day. NASW's theme for 2012 is "social work matters."

"The concept that 'social work matters' couldn't be truer at DaVita; while dialysis extends our patients' lives, our social workers help make sure our patients have quality of life," explains Duane Dunn, director of social work services for DaVita®. "We value our social workers as critical resources for our patients."

Social workers help patients adjust to life on dialysis. Teaching patients about kidney disease and their treatment options helps them understand what is happening to their bodies and make informed decisions about their care. A social worker educates and supports patients in these ways to help them enjoy a better quality of life.

Renal social work tasks include helping patients:

• Talk about their emotional needs and enhance their coping skills
• Learn about kidney disease and dialysis options
• Understand and navigate the kidney transplant process
• Strengthen their family and support system
• Adjust to treatment plans and diet changes
• Find community resources for transportation, home health services, nutrition and more
• Keep or obtain insurance

Source: DaVita    

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