What to expect when you begin dialysis at Satellite Healthcare

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Preparing for Dialysis

Know your treatment options for the best life possible.

Call 888-811-8984 or send us an email today.

A care team ready to help you start a healthy life on dialysis 

Like every other ‘first’ in your life, your first time in the treatment area of a dialysis center may feel a bit overwhelming. But like everything you’ve done, before long, you’ll learn what you need to feel comfortable. From day one, your kind and talented care team will help you every step of the way.

Take a few minutes to watch and read the items below to feel your most confident when you arrive for the first time.

Before your first day

  • Someone from your care team calls to confirm the day and time and give you directions to the center.
  • If you think you might need help with reliable transportation to and from treatments, call your center well in advance of your first day for suggestions.
  • It’s a good idea to drive by the center ahead of time so you don’t have to worry about getting lost on your first day. 
  • Look at the parking options for your center. Most centers have spots very close to the front door. However, centers in more urban areas may have more limited parking. If you have any questions, be sure to call your center for advice.
  • If you’d like a friend or family member to come with you, give them your appointment information as early as possible.
  • Your center offers information in many languages, but if you’d prefer to bring someone to help translate, he/she is most welcome.

On your first day

  • Plan on being at the center for 4-5 hours. Once you begin regular dialysis, your time in the center will generally drop down to 3 ½ to 4 hours per treatment.
  • Before leaving home, make sure you have as many of the following items as possible:
  • Wear loose clothes and comfortable shoes. Many people bring a sweater and a blanket to have just in case they get cold during treatment.
  • Give yourself a few extra minutes to arrive at your center a little early.
  • Your appointment begins with a tour and time to finalize paperwork.
  • Next, you’ll be escorted to your dialysis chair, meet more of your care team, and begin treatment. Before you leave, your nurse checks your dialysis access.
  • After your treatment, you may feel tired. Many people go home and rest until they feel better.
 
dialysis care team

Kind, helpful and committed to you

With years of experience and a passion for helping you live your best life, your dialysis care team looks forward to getting to know you and your family. 

Meet the people who make up your Satellite care team
dialysis center tour

Designed for comfort, safety, and quality treatments

Your care team wants you to feel welcome and comfortable during your time in the center.

Watch a video tour of a Satellite Healthcare center Conozca su centro

Eating and drinking on dialysis

Your diet, treatment, and medications work together to help you feel your best and stay healthy. Here’s what you need to know to get started.

Learn about eating smart

Paying for dialysis care

It’s common to have questions about insurance and other financial matters. Find information on where to get answers.

Learn about paying for treatment

Asking for help as you begin dialysis

There are many ways to get the support you need to begin dialysis with confidence. Learn more about our support resources.

Learn about emotional support
what to bring to dialysis

Learn what to bring to a treatment

Watch video Al llegar al tratamiento
what happens during dialysis

Learn what to expect during treatment

Watch video Durante el tratamiento
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Learn what to expect after treatment

Watch video Después del tratamiento

Many people have dialysis treatments in a center three times a week:

Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays OR Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays for 3-4 hours between 5:00 AM and 5:00 PM. However, some Satellite Healthcare locations offer additional options that may fit your lifestyle better.

Nocturnal hemodialysis

Centers with nighttime hours offer treatments in the evenings or overnight. This is a good option for people who have daytime jobs, go to school, or have other things they need to do during the day. These treatments also tend to be longer and can be gentler on your body.

Learn more about center nighttime hemodialysis

Optimal Transitions

This four-week program offers more frequent treatment and in-depth dialysis education to jump-start a healthy dialysis lifestyle. It includes opportunities to learn about all dialysis treatment options up close so you have the information you need to live your best life possible.

Learn more about Optimal Transitions

In the words of our patients

I feel a lot better on nocturnal. It’s a world of difference compared to the day. Because it’s so much slower it’s easier on the body. When I get done I’m able to work. David
Dialysis has reversed the whole thing. Now I do 100 pushups in the morning and I do 100 pushups in the evening. I do 50 laps, and then I’ll go ride the bike. I’m not trying to impress you, I’m trying to express what dialysis can do. Ken
They've been very supportive...cheering me on, making sure I'm okay. Wilson

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