Updated January 31, 2021
COVID-19 Resource and Education Center
Our Commitment to Delivering the COVID-19 Vaccine
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to take its toll on our nation and healthcare systems, we will continue providing the most up-to-date, valuable information to our employees, physicians, and patients. We are working hard to get access to as many doses as possible of the COVID-19 vaccine for our frontline workers and the patients we serve.
Read more in this letter to patients from our Chief Medical Officer
Understanding the Facts About COVID-19 Vaccines
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Michael Kraus, MD on the Safety and Effectiveness of the COVID-19 Vaccine
After receiving the vaccine, you might develop a low fever and experience minor body aches or chills. This is perfectly normal. It means that your body is beginning to build immunity to the COVID-19 virus. It does not mean that you have COVID-19—in fact, because the vaccines were developed without the use of the actual virus, transmission is impossible. While this has been a difficult year, we can beat COVID-19 if we work together. Please protect you and your loved ones by getting vaccinated and remember to wear a mask, wash your hands, and maintain social distancing.
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Crystal Grate, Senior Manager of Infection Prevention, Stop the Spread with the COVID-19 Vaccine
This pandemic has been a long road for all of us, but the vaccines are a beacon of hope. To fulfill our mission of life-sustaining care, we must work together to end COVID-19. And the best way to do that is to use the vaccines granted for use by the FDA because they are safe and highly effective. Protect yourself, protect your loved ones, get vaccinated.
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Felicia Speed, VP Social Work Services, Protect Yourself & Loved Ones with the COVID-19 Vaccine
This pandemic has been a long road for all of us, but the vaccines are a beacon of hope. To fulfill our mission of life sustaining care, we must work together to end COVID-19. And the best way to do that is to use the vaccines granted for use by the FDA, because they are safe and highly effective. Protect yourself, protect your loved ones, get vaccinated.
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Jeffrey Hymes, MD, on Getting Vaccinated for Protection and Immunity
The COVID-19 vaccines are the best way for us to end this global pandemic. Each of the available vaccines has undergone rigorous safety testing and each is effective. Most importantly they are the best bet for immunity. We do not know whether or not a natural infection produces long-lasting immunity, simply put natural immunity is not a guarantee. We have to use science and technology to protect ourselves and our loved ones. Please join us and get vaccinated.
Reflecting on the COVID-19 Volunteer Experience
Director of Operations and Registered Nurse, Allison, watched COVID-19 intensify in New Jersey this spring and felt compelled to rally a team to volunteer. The team left their home clinics in North Carolina and traveled north to support patients and local staff. They share the life-changing impact the experience had on them.
Innovating to Keep Our Patients Safe
Important Steps We've Implemented for Our Patients and Staff
SCREENING
All individuals entering the center are screened for fever and cough, as well as for potential COVID-19 contact risk. Any individuals who are COVID-19 positive or identified as persons under investigation (PUIs) are transferred to receive their dialysis in a separate environment or a hospital.
PATIENT SAFETY
Strict handwashing on entering and leaving the center is firmly enforced. All patients are asked to wear masks while in the center waiting room and treatment area.
STAFF SAFETY
All staff members wear masks, full protective gowns, and gloves while in close contact with patients in any area.
CENTER SAFETY
Our centers are intensively disinfected on a daily basis and visitors are not currently permitted.
Evidence-based Insights
Helpful Resources and FAQs to Support Patient Care
Field Notes Podcast: Together, Transforming Healthcare
Bringing together leading experts at the forefront of kidney disease research and patient care, Field Notes is an engaging forum discussing the latest developments, innovations, and trends that seek to improve outcomes and quality of life for individuals living with chronic disease.
LISTEN HERE
Showing Support for Our Staff and Families
During this unprecedented time, it's important to acknowledge those who continue to provide life-sustaining dialysis care for our patients across the country. The FMCNA Family Project is a great opportunity for you and your loved ones to share a letter or artwork to show your support for all the front-line staff working in our centers. Additionally, for families looking to educate their children about kidney disease, The Kidney Kid Initiative provides fun, interactive resources to do so in the comfort of your home.
