Successful AV fistula creation does not lead to higher catheter use: the experience by the Northwest Renal Network 16 Vascular Access Quality Improvement Program. Four years follow-up.

Background: In 2002, the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) required all 18 Renal Networks to participate in a Vascular Access Quality Improvement Program (QIP). The Northwest Renal Network (NWRN 16) chose to increase arteriovenous fistula (AVF) use. NWRN 16 hypothesized that strategies which targeted the improvement of AVF rate and the reduction of catheter use were the same.

Successful multidisciplinary interventions for arterio-venous fistula creation by the Pacific Northwest Renal Network 16 vascular access quality improvement program.

Background: In December 2001, 44.2% of hemodialysis (HD) patients in the Northwest Renal Network (NWRN 16) received dialysis using an arteriovenous fistula (AVF). Substantial differences were noted in percentages of patients with AVF, ranging from 5% to 90% of the facility population, suggesting wide variation in physician practice patterns within the Network.