Disease management of kidney disease — also known as active medical management without dialysis — is a treatment option for people with advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD) who do not want to have dialysis or a kidney transplant.
Disease management of kidney disease focuses on managing symptoms while preserving function and quality of life. The experts at UPMC will work closely with you to develop a treatment plan that addresses your kidney care needs, goals, preferences, and overall well-being.
Disease management of kidney disease — also known as active medical management without dialysis — is a treatment option for people with advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD) who do not want to have dialysis or a kidney transplant.
Disease management for kidney disease focuses on managing symptoms while preserving function and quality of life.
Disease management could mean anything from taking medications to manage pain or adopting a kidney-friendly diet to getting referrals for end-of-life planning services.
Our kidney disease management team supports people who are living with a range of kidney conditions, including:
Disease management of kidney disease is for individuals who want to prioritize the quality of their life, maintain their independence, and spend time at home instead of having intensive treatments like dialysis.
Typically, individuals who choose active medical management without dialysis are older with other advanced conditions, such as cancer, advanced heart disease, or advanced lung disease.
Yes. Your kidney care team can help you manage symptoms and preserve kidney function as long as possible while prioritizing your quality of life.
Our team offers a range of conservative management services for people with kidney disease. Our goal is to keep you out of the hospital and other medical settings as much as possible so you can enjoy more time with loved ones.
Our services include:
Lifestyle changes may help you feel better and preserve your kidney function. Your doctor may recommend:
Your doctor may refer you to other medical specialists, such as a registered dietitian or a cardiologist, to help you manage your condition.
If you are experiencing pain or other symptoms related to your kidney condition, your care team will treat your condition with medications and techniques that are safe for you.
If you have high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, or other conditions related to kidney disease, our team will help you manage your condition to improve your overall health.
Your care team will work closely with you to educate you and your family and provide the information you need to understand your condition, care plan, prognosis, and treatment options.
You have the right to make decisions about the kidney disease treatments you receive. We can help you understand your treatment options so you can make decisions about your care.
Whether you need kidney palliative care, mental health support, or end-of-life planning assistance during your treatment, our experts will connect you with resources to help achieve your goals.
Active medical management without dialysis is tailored to your unique goals, needs, and preferences.
You can expect treatment that:
Talk to your kidney provider about your treatment goals and whether conservative management for kidney disease may be the right choice for you. You can also learn more about active medical management without dialysis by meeting with one of our kidney palliative care providers.
When you choose UPMC for disease management services for kidney disease, you will receive:
By UPMC Editorial Staff. Last reviewed on 2025-04-24 by Faizan Syed, MD, ABOM.
