What to expect when you begin dialysis at Satellite Healthcare

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:
• A government-issued ID card
• Insurance card(s)
• Medication list
• Advanced Healthcare Directive (AHCD)
• Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST) or Do Not Resuscitate Orders (DNR)
• Social Security card, if you have one
• Social Security ‘award’ letters/Medicare information
• Any other healthcare information you want to share

• 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.