1
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Garg AX, Yohanna S, Naylor KL, McKenzie SQ, Mucsi I, Dixon SN, Luo B, Sontrop JM, Beaucage M, Belenko D, Coghlan C, Cooper R, Elliott L, Getchell L, Heale E, Ki V, Nesrallah G, Patzer RE, Presseau J, Reich M, Treleaven D, Wang C, Waterman AD, Zaltzman J, Blake PG. Effect of a Novel Multicomponent Intervention to Improve Patient Access to Kidney Transplant and Living Kidney Donation: The EnAKT LKD Cluster Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Intern Med 2023; 183:1366-1375. [PMID: 37922156 PMCID: PMC10696487 DOI: 10.1001/jamainternmed.2023.5802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/05/2023]
Abstract
Importance Patients with advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD) have the best chance for a longer and healthier life if they receive a kidney transplant. However, many barriers prevent patients from receiving a transplant. Objectives To evaluate the effect of a multicomponent intervention designed to target several barriers that prevent eligible patients from completing key steps toward receiving a kidney transplant. Design, Setting, and Participants This pragmatic, 2-arm, parallel-group, open-label, registry-based, superiority, cluster randomized clinical trial included all 26 CKD programs in Ontario, Canada, from November 1, 2017, to December 31, 2021. These programs provide care for patients with advanced CKD (patients approaching the need for dialysis or receiving maintenance dialysis). Interventions Using stratified, covariate-constrained randomization, allocation of the CKD programs at a 1:1 ratio was used to compare the multicomponent intervention vs usual care for 4.2 years. The intervention had 4 main components, (1) administrative support to establish local quality improvement teams; (2) transplant educational resources; (3) an initiative for transplant recipients and living donors to share stories and experiences; and (4) program-level performance reports and oversight by administrative leaders. Main Outcomes and Measures The primary outcome was the rate of steps completed toward receiving a kidney transplant. Each patient could complete up to 4 steps: step 1, referred to a transplant center for evaluation; step 2, had a potential living donor contact a transplant center for evaluation; step 3, added to the deceased donor waitlist; and step 4, received a transplant from a living or deceased donor. Results The 26 CKD programs (13 intervention, 13 usual care) during the trial period included 20 375 potentially transplant-eligible patients with advanced CKD (intervention group [n = 9780 patients], usual-care group [n = 10 595 patients]). Despite evidence of intervention uptake, the step completion rate did not significantly differ between the intervention vs usual-care groups: 5334 vs 5638 steps; 24.8 vs 24.1 steps per 100 patient-years; adjusted hazard ratio, 1.00 (95% CI, 0.87-1.15). Conclusions and Relevance This novel multicomponent intervention did not significantly increase the rate of completed steps toward receiving a kidney transplant. Improving access to transplantation remains a global priority that requires substantial effort. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03329521.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amit X. Garg
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Lawson Health Research Institute and London Health Sciences Centre, London, Ontario, Canada
- ICES, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Kidney Patient & Donor Alliance, Canada
- Transplant Ambassador Program, Ontario, Canada
| | - Seychelle Yohanna
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kyla L. Naylor
- Lawson Health Research Institute and London Health Sciences Centre, London, Ontario, Canada
- ICES, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Susan Q. McKenzie
- Kidney Patient & Donor Alliance, Canada
- Transplant Ambassador Program, Ontario, Canada
| | - Istvan Mucsi
- Ajmera Transplant Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Stephanie N. Dixon
- Lawson Health Research Institute and London Health Sciences Centre, London, Ontario, Canada
- ICES, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Bin Luo
- Lawson Health Research Institute and London Health Sciences Centre, London, Ontario, Canada
- ICES, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jessica M. Sontrop
- Lawson Health Research Institute and London Health Sciences Centre, London, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mary Beaucage
- Patient Governance Circle, Indigenous Peoples Engagement and Research Council and Executive Committee, Can-Solve CKD, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Provincial Patient and Family Advisory Council, Ontario Renal Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Patient co-lead Theme 1–Improve a Culture of Donation, Canadian Donation and Transplantation Research Program, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Dmitri Belenko
- Division of Nephrology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Candice Coghlan
- Centre for Living Organ Donation, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Rebecca Cooper
- Ontario Renal Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Trillium Gift of Life Network, Ontario Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lori Elliott
- Ontario Renal Network, Ontario Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Leah Getchell
- Lawson Health Research Institute and London Health Sciences Centre, London, Ontario, Canada
- Can-SOLVE CKD Network, Vancouver BC, Canada
| | - Esti Heale
- Ontario Renal Network, Ontario Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Vincent Ki
- Ontario Renal Network, Ontario Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Trillium Health Partners, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada
| | - Gihad Nesrallah
- Division of Nephrology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Humber River Regional Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Rachel E. Patzer
- Regenstrief Institute, Indianapolis, Indiana
- Department of Surgery, Division of Transplantation, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis
| | - Justin Presseau
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Health Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Marian Reich
- Canadians Seeking Solutions and Innovations to Overcome Chronic Kidney Disease (Can-Solve CKD), Patient Council, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Darin Treleaven
- Trillium Gift of Life Network, Ontario Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Carol Wang
- Lawson Health Research Institute and London Health Sciences Centre, London, Ontario, Canada
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Research Methods, Evidence and Uptake, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Amy D. Waterman
- Department of Surgery and J.C. Walter Jr. Transplant Center, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, Texas
| | - Jeffrey Zaltzman
- Trillium Gift of Life Network, Ontario Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Division of Nephrology, St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Peter G. Blake
- Lawson Health Research Institute and London Health Sciences Centre, London, Ontario, Canada
- Ontario Renal Network, Ontario Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
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2
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Krause KR, Tay J, Douglas WA, Sammy A, Baba A, Goren K, Thombs BD, Howie AH, Oskoui M, Frøbert O, Trakadis Y, Little J, Potter BK, Butcher NJ, Offringa M. Paper II: thematic framework analysis of registry-based randomized controlled trials provided insights for designing trial ready registries. J Clin Epidemiol 2023; 159:330-343. [PMID: 37146660 DOI: 10.1016/j.jclinepi.2023.04.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Registry-based randomized controlled trials (RRCTs) are increasingly used, promising to address challenges associated with traditional randomized controlled trials. We identified strengths and limitations reported in planned and completed RRCTs to inform future RRCTs. STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING We conducted an environmental scan of literature discussing conceptual or methodological strengths and limitations of using registries for trial design and conduct (n = 12), followed by an analysis of RRCT protocols (n = 13) and reports (n = 77) identified from a scoping review. Using framework analysis, we developed and refined a conceptual framework of RRCT-specific strengths and limitations. We mapped and interpreted strengths and limitations discussed by authors of RRCT articles using framework codes and quantified the frequencies at which these were mentioned. RESULTS Our conceptual framework identified six main RRCT strengths and four main RRCT limitations. Considering implications for RRCT conduct and design, we formulated ten recommendations for registry designers, administrators, and trialists planning future RRCTs. CONCLUSION Consideration and application of empirically underpinned recommendations for future registry design and trial conduct may help trialists utilize registries and RRCTs to their full potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karolin R Krause
- Cundill Centre for Child and Youth Depression, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 1000 Queen Street W, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M6J 1H4
| | - Joanne Tay
- Child Health Evaluative Sciences, The Hospital for Sick Children Research Institute, Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning, 686 Bay Street, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5G 0A4
| | - William A Douglas
- Child Health Evaluative Sciences, The Hospital for Sick Children Research Institute, Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning, 686 Bay Street, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5G 0A4
| | - Adrian Sammy
- Child Health Evaluative Sciences, The Hospital for Sick Children Research Institute, Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning, 686 Bay Street, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5G 0A4
| | - Ami Baba
- Child Health Evaluative Sciences, The Hospital for Sick Children Research Institute, Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning, 686 Bay Street, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5G 0A4
| | - Katherine Goren
- Child Health Evaluative Sciences, The Hospital for Sick Children Research Institute, Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning, 686 Bay Street, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5G 0A4
| | - Brett D Thombs
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, 3755 Chem. de la Côte-Sainte-Catherine, Montréal, Quebec, Canada H3T 1E2; Departments of Psychiatry; Epidemiology, Biostatistics, and Occupational Health; Medicine; Psychology; and Biomedical Ethics Unit, McGill University, 845 Sherbrooke St W, Montreal, Quebec, Canada H3A 0G4
| | - Alison H Howie
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, 600 Peter Morand Crescent, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1G 5Z3
| | - Maryam Oskoui
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, 3605 Rue de la Montagne, Montréal, Quebec, Canada H3G 2M1
| | - Ole Frøbert
- Department of Cardiology, Faculty of Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Yannis Trakadis
- Department of Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Montréal, Quebec, Canada H3G 1A4
| | - Julian Little
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, 600 Peter Morand Crescent, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1G 5Z3
| | - Beth K Potter
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, 600 Peter Morand Crescent, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1G 5Z3
| | - Nancy J Butcher
- Cundill Centre for Child and Youth Depression, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 1000 Queen Street W, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M6J 1H4; Child Health Evaluative Sciences, The Hospital for Sick Children Research Institute, Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning, 686 Bay Street, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5G 0A4; Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, 250 College Street, 8th floor, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5T 1R8
| | - Martin Offringa
- Child Health Evaluative Sciences, The Hospital for Sick Children Research Institute, Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning, 686 Bay Street, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5G 0A4; Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, 155 College St 4th Floor, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5T 3M6; Division of Neonatology, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, 555 University Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5G 1X8.
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3
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Yohanna S, Naylor KL, Luo B, Dixon SN, Bota SE, Kim SJ, Blake PG, Elliott L, Cooper R, Knoll GA, Treleaven D, Wang C, Garg AX. Variation in Kidney Transplant Referral Across Chronic Kidney Disease Programs in Ontario, Canada. Can J Kidney Health Dis 2023; 10:20543581231169608. [PMID: 37359986 PMCID: PMC10286544 DOI: 10.1177/20543581231169608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Eligible patients with kidney failure should have equal access to kidney transplantation. Transplant referral is the first crucial step toward receiving a kidney transplant; however, studies suggest substantial variation in the rate of kidney transplant referral across regions. The province of Ontario, Canada, has a public, single-payer health care system with 27 regional chronic kidney disease (CKD) programs. The probability of being referred for kidney transplant may not be equal across CKD programs. Objective To determine whether there is variability in kidney transplant referral rates across Ontario's CKD programs. Design Population-based cohort study using linked administrative health care databases from January 1, 2013, to November 1, 2016. Setting Twenty-seven regional CKD programs in the province of Ontario, Canada. Patients Patients approaching the need for dialysis (advanced CKD) and patients receiving maintenance dialysis (maximum follow-up: November 1, 2017). Measurements Kidney transplant referral. Methods We calculated the 1-year unadjusted cumulative probability of kidney transplant referral for Ontario's 27 CKD programs using the complement of Kaplan-Meier estimator. We calculated standardized referral ratios (SRRs) for each CKD program, using expected referrals from a 2-staged Cox proportional hazards model, adjusting for patient characteristics in the first stage. Standardized referral ratios with a value less than 1 were below the provincial average (maximum possible follow-up of 4 years 10 months). In an additional analysis, we grouped CKD programs according to 5 geographic regions. Results Among 8641 patients with advanced CKD, the 1-year cumulative probability of kidney transplant referral ranged from 0.9% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.2%-3.7%) to 21.0% (95% CI: 17.5%-25.2%) across the 27 CKD programs. The adjusted SRR ranged from 0.2 (95% CI: 0.1-0.4) to 4.2 (95% CI: 2.1-7.5). Among 6852 patients receiving maintenance dialysis, the 1-year cumulative probability of transplant referral ranged from 6.4% (95% CI: 4.0%-10.2%) to 34.5% (95% CI: 29.5%-40.1%) across CKD programs. The adjusted SRR ranged from 0.2 (95% CI: 0.1-0.3) to 1.8 (95% CI: 1.6-2.1). When we grouped CKD programs according to geographic region, we found that patients residing in Northern regions had a substantially lower 1-year cumulative probability of transplant referral. Limitations Our cumulative probability estimates only captured referrals within the first year of advanced CKD or maintenance dialysis initiation. Conclusions There is marked variability in the probability of kidney transplant referral across CKD programs operating in a publicly funded health care system.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kyla L. Naylor
- ICES, London, ON, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON, Canada
| | - Bin Luo
- ICES, London, ON, Canada
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON, Canada
| | - Stephanie N. Dixon
- ICES, London, ON, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON, Canada
| | - Sarah E. Bota
- ICES, London, ON, Canada
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON, Canada
| | - S. Joseph Kim
- Division of Nephrology, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Peter G. Blake
- Ontario Renal Network, Ontario Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Division of Nephrology, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Lori Elliott
- Ontario Renal Network, Ontario Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Rebecca Cooper
- Ontario Renal Network and Trillium Gift of Life Network, Ontario Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Gregory A. Knoll
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Kidney Research Centre, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Darin Treleaven
- Division of Nephrology, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Carol Wang
- Division of Nephrology, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Amit X. Garg
- ICES, London, ON, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON, Canada
- Division of Nephrology, Western University, London, ON, Canada
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4
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Horton A, Loban K, Fortin MC, Charbonneau S, Nugus P, Pâquet MR, Chaudhury P, Cantarovich M, Sandal S. Living Donor Kidney Transplantation in Quebec: A Qualitative Case Study of Health System Barriers and Facilitators. Can J Kidney Health Dis 2023; 10:20543581221150675. [PMID: 36704234 PMCID: PMC9871975 DOI: 10.1177/20543581221150675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Patients with kidney failure represent a major public health burden, and living donor kidney transplantation (LDKT) is the best treatment option for these patients. Current work to optimize LDKT delivery to patients has focused on microlevel interventions and has not addressed interdependencies with meso and macro levels of practice. Objective We aimed to learn from a health system with historically low LDKT performance to identify facilitators and barriers to LDKT. Our specific aims were to understand how LDKT delivery is organized through interacting macro, meso, and micro levels of practice and identify what attributes and processes of this health system facilitate the delivery of LDKT to patients with kidney failure and what creates barriers. Design We conducted a qualitative case study, applying a complex adaptive systems approach to LDKT delivery, that recognizes health systems as being made up of dynamic, nested, and interconnected levels, with the patient at its core. Setting The setting for this case study was the province of Quebec, Canada. Participants Thirty-two key stakeholders from all levels of the health system. This included health care professionals, leaders in LDKT governance, living kidney donors, and kidney recipients. Methods Semi-structured interviews with 32 key stakeholders and a document review were undertaken between February 2021 and December 2021. Inductive thematic analysis was used to generate themes. Results Overall, we identified strong links between system attributes and processes and LDKT delivery, and more barriers than facilitators were discerned. Barriers that undermined access to LDKT included fragmented LDKT governance and expertise, disconnected care practices, limited resources, and regional inequities. Some were mitigated to an extent by the intervention of a program launched in 2018 to increase LDKT. Facilitators driven by the program included advocacy for LDKT from individual member(s) of the care team, dedicated resources, increased collaboration, and training opportunities that targeted LDKT delivery at multiple levels of practice. Limitations Delineating the borders of a "case" is a challenge in case study research, and it is possible that some perspectives may have been missed. Participants may have produced socially desirable answers. Conclusions Our study systematically investigated real-world practices as they operate throughout a health system. This novel approach has cross-disciplinary methodological relevance, and our findings have policy implications that can help inform multilevel interventions to improve LDKT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Horton
- Research Institute of the McGill
University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Katya Loban
- Research Institute of the McGill
University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada,Division of Nephrology, Department of
Medicine, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Marie-Chantal Fortin
- Centre de recherche du Centre
hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal, QC, Canada,Division of Nephrology, Department of
Medicine, Centre hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal, QC, Canada
| | | | - Peter Nugus
- Department of Family Medicine and
Institute of Health Sciences Education, McGill University, Montreal, QC,
Canada
| | - Michel R. Pâquet
- Centre de recherche du Centre
hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal, QC, Canada,Division of Nephrology, Department of
Medicine, Centre hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Prosanto Chaudhury
- Research Institute of the McGill
University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada,Department of Surgery, McGill
University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Marcelo Cantarovich
- Research Institute of the McGill
University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada,Division of Nephrology, Department of
Medicine, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Shaifali Sandal
- Research Institute of the McGill
University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada,Division of Nephrology, Department of
Medicine, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada,Shaifali Sandal, Research Institute of the
McGill University Health Centre, Royal Victoria Hospital Glen Site, D05-7176,
1001 boul Decarie, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada.
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5
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Dixon SN, Naylor KL, Yohanna S, McKenzie S, Belenko D, Blake PG, Coghlan C, Cooper R, Elliott L, Getchell L, Ki V, Mucsi I, Nesrallah G, Patzer RE, Presseau J, Reich M, Sontrop JM, Treleaven D, Waterman AD, Zaltzman J, Garg AX. Enhance Access to Kidney Transplantation and Living Kidney Donation (EnAKT LKD): Statistical Analysis Plan of a Registry-Based, Cluster-Randomized Clinical Trial. Can J Kidney Health Dis 2022; 9:20543581221131201. [PMID: 36438439 PMCID: PMC9693773 DOI: 10.1177/20543581221131201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Enhance Access to Kidney Transplantation and Living Kidney Donation (EnAKT LKD) is a quality improvement intervention designed to enhance access to kidney transplantation and living kidney donation. We conducted a cluster-randomized clinical trial to evaluate the effect of the intervention versus usual care on completing key steps toward receiving a kidney transplant. OBJECTIVE To prespecify the statistical analysis plan for the EnAKT LKD trial. DESIGN The EnAKT LKD trial is a pragmatic, 2-arm, parallel-group, registry-based, open-label, cluster-randomized, superiority, clinical trial. Randomization was performed at the level of the chronic kidney disease (CKD) programs (the "clusters"). SETTING Twenty-six CKD programs in Ontario, Canada. PARTICIPANTS More than 10 000 patients with advanced CKD (ie, patients approaching the need for dialysis or receiving maintenance dialysis) with no recorded contraindication to receiving a kidney transplant. METHODS The trial data (including patient characteristics and outcomes) will be obtained from linked administrative health care databases (the "registry"). Stratified covariate-constrained randomization was used to allocate the 26 CKD programs (1:1) to provide the intervention or usual care from November 1, 2017, to December 31, 2021 (4.17 years). CKD programs in the intervention arm received the following: (1) support for local quality improvement teams and administrative needs; (2) tailored education and resources for staff, patients, and living kidney donor candidates; (3) support from kidney transplant recipients and living kidney donors; and (4) program-level performance reports and oversight by program leaders. OUTCOMES The primary outcome is completing key steps toward receiving a kidney transplant, where up to 4 unique steps per patient will be considered: (1) patient referred to a transplant center for evaluation, (2) a potential living kidney donor begins their evaluation at a transplant center to donate a kidney to the patient, (3) patient added to the deceased donor transplant waitlist, and (4) patient receives a kidney transplant from a living or deceased donor. ANALYSIS PLAN Using an intent-to-treat approach, the primary outcome will be analyzed using a patient-level constrained multistate model adjusting for the clustering in CKD programs. TRIAL STATUS The EnAKT LKD trial period is November 1, 2017, to December 31, 2021. We expect to analyze and report the results once the data for the trial period is available in linked administrative health care databases. TRIAL REGISTRATION The EnAKT LKD trial is registered with the U.S. National Institute of Health at clincaltrials.gov (NCT03329521 available at https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03329521). STATISTICAL ANALYTIC PLAN Version 1.0 August 26, 2022.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie N. Dixon
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
- London Health Sciences Centre, London, Ontario, Canada
- ICES, London, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kyla L. Naylor
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
- London Health Sciences Centre, London, Ontario, Canada
- ICES, London, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | | | | | - Dmitri Belenko
- Division of Nephrology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Peter G Blake
- Ontario Renal Network, Ontario Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Division of Nephrology, London Health Sciences Centre, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Candice Coghlan
- Centre for Living Organ Donation, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Rebecca Cooper
- Ontario Renal Network, Ontario Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Trillium Gift of Life Network, Ontario Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lori Elliott
- Ontario Renal Network, Ontario Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Leah Getchell
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
- London Health Sciences Centre, London, Ontario, Canada
- Can-SOLVE CKD Network, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Vincent Ki
- Ontario Renal Network, Ontario Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Trillium Health Partners, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada
| | - Istvan Mucsi
- Division of Nephrology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Ajmera Transplant Center, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Gihad Nesrallah
- Division of Nephrology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Humber River Regional Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Rachel E. Patzer
- Health Services Research Center, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Ontario, USA
| | - Justin Presseau
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Health Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Marian Reich
- Canadians Seeking Solutions and Innovations to Overcome Chronic Kidney Disease, Patient Council, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Jessica M. Sontrop
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
- London Health Sciences Centre, London, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Darin Treleaven
- McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Trillium Gift of Life Network, Ontario Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Amy D. Waterman
- Department of Surgery and J.C. Walter Jr. Transplant Center, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jeffrey Zaltzman
- Trillium Gift of Life Network, Ontario Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Division of Nephrology, St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Amit X. Garg
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
- ICES, London, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Ontario Renal Network, Ontario Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Division of Nephrology, London Health Sciences Centre, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
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6
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Gordon EJ, Lee J, Kang R, Caicedo JC. Impact of having potential living donors on ethnic/racial disparities in access to kidney transplantation. Am J Transplant 2022; 22:2433-2442. [PMID: 35524363 PMCID: PMC9547969 DOI: 10.1111/ajt.17090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Revised: 04/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Racial/ethnic disparities persist in patients' access to living donor kidney transplantation (LDKT). This study assessed the impact of having available potential living donors (PLDs) on candidates' receipt of a kidney transplant (KT) and LDKT at two KT programs. Using data from our clinical trial of waitlisted candidates (January 1, 2014-December 31, 2019), we evaluated Hispanic and Non-Hispanic White (NHW) KT candidates' number of PLDs. Multivariable logistic regression assessed the impact of PLDs on transplantation (KT vs. no KT; for KT recipients, LDKT vs. deceased donor KT). A total of 847 candidates were included, identifying as Hispanic (45.8%) or NHW (54.2%). For Site A, both Hispanic (adjusted OR = 2.26 [95% CI 1.13-4.53]) and NHW (OR = 2.42 [1.10-5.33]) candidates with PLDs completing the questionnaire were more likely to receive a KT. For Site B, candidates with PLDs were not significantly more likely to receive KT. Among KT recipients at both sites, Hispanic (Site A: OR = 21.22 [2.44-184.88]; Site B: OR = 25.54 [7.52-101.54]), and NHW (Site A: OR = 37.70 [6.59-215.67]; Site B: OR = 15.18 [5.64-40.85]) recipients with PLD(s) were significantly more likely to receive a LDKT. Our findings suggest that PLDs increased candidates' likelihood of KT receipt, particularly LDKT. Transplant programs should help candidates identify PLDs early in transplant evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa J. Gordon
- Department of Surgery‐ Division of TransplantationCenter for Health Services and Outcomes ResearchCenter for Bioethics and Medical HumanitiesNorthwestern University Feinberg School of MedicineChicagoIllinoisUSA
| | - Jungwha Lee
- Department of Preventive MedicineNorthwestern University Feinberg School of MedicineChicagoIllinoisUSA
| | - Raymond Kang
- Center for Community HealthNorthwestern University Feinberg School of MedicineChicagoIllinoisUSA
| | - Juan Carlos Caicedo
- Department of Surgery‐ Division of TransplantationNorthwestern University Feinberg School of MedicineChicagoIllinoisUSA
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7
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Wang C, Naylor KL, Luo B, Bota SE, Dixon SN, Yohanna S, Treleaven D, Elliott L, Garg AX. Using Administrative Health Care Databases to Identify Patients With End-Stage Kidney Disease With No Recorded Contraindication to Receiving a Kidney Transplant. Can J Kidney Health Dis 2022; 9:20543581221111712. [PMID: 35898578 PMCID: PMC9309776 DOI: 10.1177/20543581221111712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Administrative health care databases can be efficiently analyzed to describe the degree to which patients with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) have access to kidney transplantation. Measures of access to transplantation are better represented when restricting to only those patients eligible to receive a kidney transplant. The way administrative data can be used to assess kidney transplant eligibility in the absence of clinical data has not been well described. Objective To demonstrate a method that uses administrative health care databases to identify patients with ESKD who have no recorded contraindication to receiving a kidney transplant. Design and setting Population-based cohort study using linked administrative health care databases in Ontario, Canada. Patients Adult patients with ESKD approaching the need for dialysis (predialysis) or receiving maintenance dialysis between January 1, 2013 and March 31, 2015 in Ontario, Canada. Measurements Recipient of a kidney-only or kidney-pancreas transplant. Methods We assessed more than 80 baseline characteristics, including demographic information, comorbidities, kidney-specific characteristics, and referral and listing criteria for kidney transplantation. We compared these characteristics between patients who did and did not receive a kidney transplant. Results We included 23 642 patients with ESKD (11 195 who were predialysis and 12 447 receiving maintenance dialysis). Over a median follow-up of 3.2 years (25th, 75th percentile: 1.3, 5.6), 3215 (13.6%) received a kidney-only or kidney-pancreas transplant. Of the studied characteristics available in administrative databases, >97% of patients with one or more of these characteristics did not receive a kidney transplant during follow-up: ESKD-modified Charlson Comorbidity Index score ≥7 (a higher score represents greater comorbidity), home oxygen use, age above 75 years, dementia, living in a long-term care facility, receiving at least one physician house call in the past year, and a combination of select malignancies (ie, lung, lymphoma, cervical, colorectal, liver, active multiple myeloma, and bladder cancer). Using these combined criteria reduced the total number of patients from 23 642 to 12 539 with no recorded contraindications to transplant (a 47% reduction), while the proportion who received a kidney transplant changed from 13.6% (denominator of 23 642) to 24.9% (denominator of 12 539). Limitations Administrative databases are unable to capture all the complexities of determining transplant eligibility. Conclusion We identified several criteria available within administrative health care databases that can be used to identify patients with ESKD who have no recorded contraindications to kidney transplant. These criteria could be applied when reporting measures of access to kidney transplantation that require knowledge of transplant eligibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carol Wang
- Division of Nephrology, Western University, London, ON, Canada.,London Health Sciences Center, Victoria Hospital, London, ON, Canada
| | - Kyla L Naylor
- ICES, London, ON, Canada.,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Western University, London, ON, Canada.,Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada
| | | | | | - Stephanie N Dixon
- ICES, London, ON, Canada.,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Western University, London, ON, Canada.,Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada
| | | | - Darin Treleaven
- Division of Nephrology, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Lori Elliott
- Ontario Renal Network, Ontario Health, Toronto, Canada
| | - Amit X Garg
- Division of Nephrology, Western University, London, ON, Canada.,ICES, London, ON, Canada.,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Western University, London, ON, Canada
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8
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Love S, Harrison TG, Fox DE, Donald M, Verdin N, Hemmelgarn BR, Elliott MJ. Healthcare provider perspectives on integrating peer support in non-dialysis-dependent chronic kidney disease care: a mixed methods study. BMC Nephrol 2022; 23:152. [PMID: 35436850 PMCID: PMC9014775 DOI: 10.1186/s12882-022-02776-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Peer support complements traditional models of chronic kidney disease (CKD) care through sharing of peer experiences, pragmatic advice, and resources to enhance chronic kidney disease self-management and decision-making. As peer support is variably offered and integrated into multi-disciplinary CKD care, we aimed to characterize healthcare providers' experiences and views on peer support provision for people with non-dialysis-dependent CKD within Canada. METHODS In this concurrent mixed methods study, we used a self-administered online survey to collect information from multi-disciplinary CKD clinic providers (e.g., nurses, nephrologists, allied health professionals) on peer support awareness, program characteristics and processes, perceived value, and barriers and facilitators to offering peer support in CKD clinics. Results were analyzed descriptively. We undertook semi-structured interviews with a sample of survey respondents to elaborate on perspectives about peer support in CKD care, which we analyzed using inductive, content analysis. RESULTS We surveyed 113 providers from 49 clinics. Two thirds (66%) were aware of formal peer support programs, of whom 19% offered in-house peer support through their clinic. Peer support awareness differed by role and region, and most referrals were made by social workers. Likert scale responses suggested a high perceived need of peer support for people with CKD. Top cited barriers to offering peer support included lack of peer support access and workload demands, while facilitators included systematic clinic processes for peer support integration and alignment with external programs. Across 18 interviews, we identified themes related to peer support awareness, logistics, and accessibility and highlighted a need for integrated support pathways. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest variability in awareness and availability of peer support among Canadian multi-disciplinary CKD clinics. An understanding of the factors influencing peer support delivery will inform strategies to optimize its uptake for people with advanced CKD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannan Love
- Department of Medicine, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, TRW Building, 3280 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 4Z6, Canada
| | - Tyrone G Harrison
- Department of Medicine, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, TRW Building, 3280 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 4Z6, Canada.,Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Danielle E Fox
- Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Maoliosa Donald
- Department of Medicine, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, TRW Building, 3280 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 4Z6, Canada
| | - Nancy Verdin
- Medicine Strategic Clinical Network, Patient & Family Advisory Council, Alberta Health Services, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Patient and Community Engagement Research (PaCER) Program, O'Brien Institute for Public Health, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | | | - Meghan J Elliott
- Department of Medicine, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, TRW Building, 3280 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 4Z6, Canada. .,Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
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Hamid M, Rogers E, Chawla G, Gill J, Macanovic S, Mucsi I. Pretransplant Patient Education in Solid-organ Transplant: A Narrative Review. Transplantation 2022; 106:722-733. [PMID: 34260472 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0000000000003893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Education for pretransplant, solid-organ recipient candidates aims to improve knowledge and understanding about the transplant process, outcomes, and potential complications to support informed, shared decision-making to reduce fears and anxieties about transplant, inform expectations, and facilitate adjustment to posttransplant life. In this review, we summarize novel pretransplant initiatives and approaches to educate solid-organ transplant recipient candidates. First, we review approaches that may be common to all solid-organ transplants, then we summarize interventions specific to kidney, liver, lung, and heart transplant. We describe evidence that emphasizes the need for multidisciplinary approaches to transplant education. We also summarize initiatives that consider online (eHealth) and mobile (mHealth) solutions. Finally, we highlight education initiatives that support racialized or otherwise marginalized communities to improve equitable access to solid-organ transplant. A considerable amount of work has been done in solid-organ transplant since the early 2000s with promising results. However, many studies on education for pretransplant recipient candidates involve relatively small samples and nonrandomized designs and focus on short-term surrogate outcomes. Overall, many of these studies have a high risk of bias. Frequently, interventions assessed are not well characterized or they are combined with administrative and data-driven initiatives into multifaceted interventions, which makes it difficult to assess the impact of the education component on outcomes. In the future, well-designed studies rigorously assessing well-defined surrogate and clinical outcomes will be needed to evaluate the impact of many promising initiatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marzan Hamid
- Multi-Organ Transplant Program and Division of Nephrology, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Yohanna S, Wilson M, Naylor KL, Garg AX, Sontrop JM, Belenko D, Elliott L, McKenzie S, Macanovic S, Mucsi I, Patzer R, Voronin I, Lui I, Blake PG, Waterman AD, Treleaven D, Presseau J. Protocol for a Process Evaluation of the Quality Improvement Intervention to Enhance Access to Kidney Transplantation and Living Kidney Donation (EnAKT LKD) Cluster-Randomized Clinical Trial. Can J Kidney Health Dis 2022; 9:20543581221084502. [PMID: 35340770 PMCID: PMC8943297 DOI: 10.1177/20543581221084502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Many patients who would benefit from a kidney transplant never receive one. The Enhance Access to Kidney Transplantation and Living Kidney Donation (EnAKT LKD) pragmatic, cluster-randomized clinical trial is testing whether a multi-component quality improvement intervention, provided in chronic kidney disease (CKD) programs (vs. usual care), can help patients with CKD with no recorded contraindications to kidney transplant complete more steps toward receiving a transplant (primary outcome of the trial). The EnAKT LKD intervention has 4 components: (1) quality Improvement teams and administrative support, (2) improved transplant education for patients and healthcare providers, (3) access to support and (4) program-level performance monitoring. Objective: To conduct a process evaluation of the EnAKT LKD quality improvement intervention to determine if the components were delivered, received, and enacted as designed (fidelity), and if the intervention addressed intended barriers (mechanisms of change). Design: A mixed-methods process evaluation informed by new practice implementation and theories of behavior change. Setting: Chronic kidney disease programs in Ontario, Canada, began receiving the EnAKT LKD intervention on November 1, 2017 and will continue to receive it until December 31, 2021. The process evaluation (interviews and surveys) will occur alongside the trial, between December 2020 to May 2021. Participants: Healthcare providers (eg, dialysis nurses, nephrologists, members of the multi-care kidney clinic team) at Ontario’s 27 CKD programs. Methods: We will survey and interview healthcare providers at each CKD program, and complete an intervention implementation checklist. Quantitative data from the surveys and the intervention implementation checklist will assess fidelity to the intervention, while quantitative and qualitative data from surveys and interviews will provide insight into the mechanisms of change. Limitations: The long trial period may result in poor participant recall. Conclusion: This process evaluation will enhance interpretation of the trial findings, guide improvements in the intervention components, and inform future implementation. Trial registration: Clinicaltrials.gov; identifier: NCT03329521.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seychelle Yohanna
- Division of Nephrology, McMaster University, Hamilton ON, Canada
- St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Mackenzie Wilson
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, ON, Canada
| | - Kyla L. Naylor
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Amit X. Garg
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- Division of Nephrology, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- Ontario Renal Network, Ontario Health, Toronto, Canada
| | - Jessica M. Sontrop
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Dmitri Belenko
- Division of Nephrology, University of Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Lori Elliott
- Ontario Renal Network, Ontario Health, Toronto, Canada
| | - Susan McKenzie
- Ontario Renal Network, Ontario Health, Toronto, Canada
- Grand River Hospital, Kitchener, ON, Canada
| | - Sara Macanovic
- Division of Nephrology, University of Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Istvan Mucsi
- Ontario Renal Network, Ontario Health, Toronto, Canada
| | - Rachel Patzer
- Health Services Research Center, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, USA
| | - Irina Voronin
- Ontario Renal Network, Ontario Health, Toronto, Canada
| | - Iris Lui
- Ontario Renal Network, Ontario Health, Toronto, Canada
| | - Peter G. Blake
- Division of Nephrology, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- Ontario Renal Network, Ontario Health, Toronto, Canada
| | - Amy D. Waterman
- Division of Nephrology, University of California, Los Angeles, USA
| | - Darin Treleaven
- Division of Nephrology, McMaster University, Hamilton ON, Canada
- Trillium Gift of Life Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Justin Presseau
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, ON, Canada
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