COLUMBUS, Ohio — Patients with advanced kidney disease now have access to kidney transplant services within the OhioHealth system following the launch of a new Kidney Transplant Program at OhioHealth Riverside Methodist Hospital.
The program allows patients to complete every stage of the transplant process — from initial evaluation and surgery to recovery and long-term follow-up care — without leaving the OhioHealth network. Hospital officials say the integrated approach is designed to improve communication among providers, reduce the need for multiple referrals and offer a more coordinated experience for patients and their families.
The transplant program is led by a multidisciplinary team that includes transplant surgeons, transplant nephrologists, advanced practice providers, transplant coordinators, pharmacists, dietitians, social workers and financial counselors. Together, the team develops personalized treatment plans while guiding patients through each step of the transplant process.
“For many patients, a kidney transplant represents a life-changing opportunity,” said Dr. Hannah Kerr, a transplant surgeon with OhioHealth. “The program is designed to provide expert surgical care while ensuring patients receive ongoing support before, during and after their transplant.”
OhioHealth officials say kidney transplantation can provide greater independence, improved quality of life and freedom from dialysis for many people with end-stage kidney disease.
The program evaluates patients for both deceased donor and living donor kidney transplants. Living donor transplants may reduce wait times, improve long-term outcomes and allow surgeries to be scheduled in advance for eligible recipients.
Dr. Salma Shaikhouni, a transplant nephrologist with OhioHealth, said the goal is to help patients understand all available treatment options while receiving care tailored to their medical needs and personal goals.
According to OhioHealth, keeping transplant care within one health system provides greater continuity of care and stronger collaboration among specialists throughout the patient’s treatment and recovery.
Individuals with end-stage kidney disease or advanced chronic kidney disease who are interested in learning more about kidney transplantation are encouraged to speak with their physician or contact the OhioHealth Kidney Transplant Program for additional information.
OhioHealth is a not-for-profit, faith-based healthcare system serving communities across Ohio through hospitals, physician practices and outpatient care facilities.
