DOPPS - Dialysis Outcomes and Practice Patterns Study

The DOPPS is a prospective cohort study of hemodialysis practices based on the collection of observational longitudinal data for a random sample of patients from a representative and random sample of units in 12 countries (Australia, Belgium, Canada, France, Germany, Japan, Italy, New Zealand, Spain, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and the United States). Data collection for the study has been on-going since 1996 and has yielded detailed data on more than 38,000 patients in over 900 dialysis facilities. DOPPS investigations focus on determining which dialysis practices are associated with the best patient outcomes, with the primary goal of improving patient longevity, quality of life, and other outcomes. With over 75 peer-reviewed publications in print or in press, the DOPPS continues to provide numerous important findings that are relevant for patients and practicing clinicians alike. The DOPPS is supported by research grants from Amgen and Kirin Pharma, without restrictions on publications.

Visit our site at www.dopps.org

ISHCOF - International Study of Health Care Organization and Financing

The International Study of Health Care Organization and Financing (ISHCOF) is a comparative review of various structures, incentives, and policies for end-stage renal disease (ESRD) treatment in the 12 DOPPS countries. ISHCOF aims to characterize these financial arrangements and their impact on the delivery of dialysis care. In 2004 and 2005, surveys addressing several aspects of ESRD financing were administered to investigators in each country. The results of these surveys were then used to write 12 country-specific manuscripts and 1 summary article.

The DOPPS is an observational hemodialysis study collecting detailed information on over 38,000 patients in over 900 dialysis facilities from 12 countries around the world.

This CD presents researchers and clinicians with over 10 years of results from the DOPPS study. In it, you will find slides showing important results from more than 60 peer-reviewed publications on topics ranging from anemia to vascular access. As well, full-text articles present the results of The International Study of Health Care Organization and Financing. Finally, the CD directs you to the DOPPS website for the most current and complete listing of publication results, including PubMed links, abstracts, research slides, and full-text articles where available. With the goal of improving the science of patient care in the dialysis community, we encourage you to use these resources freely and widely.