Addressing CKD in West Virginia: A Targeted Approach

West Virginia has one of the highest rates of CKD in the country, largely due to high levels of diabetes, hypertension, and obesity among its residents. Many people in rural and underserved communities lack access to early testing and preventive care, often resulting in late-stage diagnoses.

In response, Quality Insights, in partnership with Renal RD LLC and with support from the Benedum Foundation, launched the West Virginia Chronic Kidney Disease Prevention Program. This initiative connects residents with insurance-covered registered dietitians who provide personalized nutrition therapy, focusing on early detection and preventing CKD progression. By offering individualized care, the program helps participants manage underlying conditions and improve their kidney health. While the program targets West Virginians residing in the counties of Boone, Greenbrier, Jackson, Mingo, Roane and Wyoming. While the emphasis of this program is on those counties, all West Virginia residents are encouraged to participate. 

The West Virginia CKD Prevention Program has proven to be highly successful, with participants reporting improved lab values, reduced symptoms, and positive health outcomes. Patient testimonials highlight the program’s impact, with many expressing gratitude for the personalized support that helped them manage their condition and avoid further complications. 

“Before joining the WV CKD Prevention Program, I spent hours researching dietary information on my own. Thanks to the program, my eGFR has improved from 45 to 80 since early 2024. This program will be a valuable asset for West Virginians, helping them start kidney care early and improving the overall health of our state" said Pat Caperton, Program Participant from Kanawha County.

The West Virginia CKD Prevention Program is essential in tackling the state’s high prevalence of chronic kidney disease by connecting residents with insurance-covered registered dietitians and providing valuable education and resources. By focusing on early detection and personalized nutrition therapy, the program helps prevent the progression of CKD, improves health outcomes, and enhances the quality of life for West Virginians managing CKD.