Developing a Peritoneal Dialysis (Pd) Clinic At AUBMC: A Focus on Clinical Functions

Abstract

Introduction and Background: This project outlines the development of a Peritoneal Dialysis (PD) clinic at the American University of Beirut Medical Center (AUBMC), with a focused emphasis on clinical functions. As the global burden of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end-stage renal disease (ESRD) continues to rise, expanding renal replacement therapy (RRT) options is essential. PD presents a patient-centered, home-based alternative to conventional hemodialysis, offering greater flexibility and quality of life when supported by a structured clinical framework. Goals: The primary goal of this project was to develop the framework of a comprehensive PD clinic within AUBMC, define its core clinical functions, and propose the integration of multidisciplinary care, education, and follow-up processes to optimize patient outcomes. This project aims will serve as a foundational model for a PD clinic to ensure that patients opting for PD at AUBMC receive safe, and effective care through a dedicated and collaborative clinical structure. Methods: A proposal of a PD clinic was developed based on literature, with a focus on clinical functions, and considering needs-based assessment, stakeholders’ engagement, workflow mapping, and alignment with international best practices and standards of care in PD. Program Implementation and Evaluation Plan: The implementation plan entails aspect of building clinical infrastructure, operationalization of PD clinic and achieving the provision of quality care. The evaluation plan incorporated both patient-level and program-level metrics. From a patient perspective, outcomes such as adherence to therapy, complication rates (peritonitis), dialysis adequacy, patient education, and quality of life were prioritized. From a programmatic standpoint, indicators such as protocol implementation, interdisciplinary coordination, staff training, and continuous quality improvement initiatives will be assessed