505 San Marin Dr. Bldg. A, Suite 300, Novato, CA  94945
Phone: 415-897-2400
Administration Fax: 415-897-2422
Data Fax: 415-897-2443
Toll-free for Patients: 1-800-232-3773

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Video of Arteriovenous Fistula (AVF) Cannulation FF Change Concepts FF Resources FF Quarterly Summary FF Brochure FF Brochure-Spanish Prevent Problems with Your Access

The Fistula First mission is to make sure that every eligible ESRD patient receives his/her optimal form of vascular access (in the majority of cases AVF) and to avoid vascular access complications through appropriate monitoring and intervention. This project was launched July 1, 2003 by CMS along with the 18 ESRD Networks and the Institute of Healthcare Quality (IHI). The goal is to attain a prevalent AVF rate of 66% by June 2009.

Network #17's strategy includes a variety of activities that target the different needs of varied audiences. We will emphasize improved communication between the nephrologist, the vascular surgeon, the interventional radiologist, and dialysis staff.

Please review the resources below and ask yourself these questions:

• Which of these strategies am I already using?
• Could I perform these strategies more effectively?
  
• Which changes can I make that will cause greatest improvement?
  
• Will any of these changes require new ways of communicating and coordinating
• Will any changes require new clinical skills?
• What new knowledge and support might I need, and where can I find these?
  

 

505 San Marin Dr. Bldg. A, Suite 300, Novato, CA  94945
Phone: 415-897-2400
Administration Fax: 415-897-2422
Data Fax: 415-897-2443
Toll-free for Patients: 1-800-232-3773

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