KCER: Kidney Community Emergency Response Coalition
ESRD Networks
Under the direction of CMS, the End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) Network Program consists of a national network of 18 ESRD Networks, responsible for each U.S. state, territory, and the District of Columbia. ESRD Networks service geographic areas based on the number and concentration of ESRD beneficiaries.
ESRD Networks work with consumers and ESRD facilities and other providers of ESRD services to refine care delivery systems to make sure ESRD patients get the right care at the right time. For more information, visit the ESRD Network Organizations Overview at http://www.cms.gov/ESRDNetworkOrganizations/
How KCER Works For Networks
Under contract with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), the Kidney Community Emergency Response (KCER) Coalition conducts activities to support ESRD Networks for disaster preparedness and response.
In order to accomplish this objective, The ESRD Network Coordinating Center (NCC) serves as the administrative support for the Coalition. KCER provides resources, expertise, educational materials, and technical assistance to ESRD Networks.
In the event that a crisis requires assistance outside of an ESRD Network’s capacity, KCER resources are available.
Visit the links on this site to access resources or request technical assistance.
Contract Number HHSM-500-2013-NW002C.
Quick Links:
- Disaster Preparedness: A Guide for Chronic Dialysis Facilities – Second Edition (.pdf)
- Disaster Preparedness: A Guide for Chronic Dialysis Facilities – Second Edition – Supplemental Appendix of Customizable Forms (.doc)
- CMS End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) Center
- ESRD Network Coordinating Center - Find your local ESRD Network
- CMS Survey & Certification Emergency Preparedness
Available Resources and Types of Technical Assistance
There are many types of KCER technical assistance available, including:
TOLL FREE INFORMATION LINE
- NKF hosts a kidney community toll-free emergency hotline for patients / providers at 888-33-KIDNEY (888-335-4363).
- In the event of a disaster, this hotline would serve to connect dialysis patients, their families, and healthcare providers with kidney care resources.
EMERGENCY INFORMATION SHARING
- In the event of a large-scale emergency/disaster, Networks can share information through targeted Response Team listservs and with KCER volunteers and interested parties. Information is also provided to the Communications Response Team, which manages the National Kidney Foundation (NKF) patient hotline.
KIDNEY COMMUNITY CONFERENCE CALLS
- The KCER Coalition can host conference calls for national emergencies and large disasters. Notices and dial-in information will be posted on the website and on the KCER Hotline.
- The KCER Hotline is 866-901-ESRD (866-901-3773). During non-emergency times, a recorded message is available.
- This conference line is also available for use by individual Networks for coordinating pre-disaster preparedness, emergency response and recovery activities.
OPEN / CLOSED FACILITY STATUS
- KCER is available to help Networks post the open / closed status of facilities to www.dialysisunits.com.
- KCER can also assist Networks in communicating provider operational status to State Agencies, CMS and other appropriate stakeholders.
OTHER RESOURCES & ASSISTANCE
- Help identify “lessons learned” and share best practices.
- Provide assistance with continuous quality improvement techniques to address and update internal and community practices for disaster readiness and response.
- Provide emergency management education and training.
- KCER has two traveling exhibit booths available for meetings/events.
Request Technical Assistance
There are many types of KCER technical assistance available. Contact KCER at 1-866-901-3773 or email the NCC to:
- request technical assistance,
- get information and education,
- reserve the KCER exhibit booth for your meeting, or
- just ask a question!
