DaVita, Fresenius partner to create network of COVID-19 dialysis clinics

While social distancing will help stem the spread of COVID-19, the practice is near impossible for thousands of vulnerable people who risk becoming severely ill without their regular treatment. Patients with kidney failure are one of these vulnerable groups. Instead of keeping away from others, these patients, who tend to be older with several other chronic conditions, must visit a dialysis center to stay alive. They sit in clinics next to 10 to 30 other immunocompromised patients for four hours, three times a week. They have no choice. While other people may be able to put off scheduled doctor's appointments to avoid infection, dialysis can't be postponed.