Immediate Release

Media Contact: 

Adjoa Kyerematen

akyerematen@nmqf.org

202-220-8505 

Washington, D.C. [August 21, 2024] — The National Minority Quality Forum (NMQF) is proud to announce the launch of the Nephrologists for Equitable Kidney Care (NEKC) initiative, a groundbreaking effort aimed at addressing disparities in kidney care, particularly in underserved communities across the United States. This initiative is spearheaded by NMQF’s newly established Center for Professional and Strategic Alliances, a division dedicated to fostering collaborations that advance health equity.

Kidney disease disproportionately affects minority populations, with African Americans, Hispanics, Native Americans, and Asian Americans experiencing higher rates of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end-stage renal disease (ESRD). The NEKC initiative is a collaborative network of nephrologists, healthcare professionals, and advocates who are dedicated to addressing disparities in kidney care, particularly in underserved communities. 

The initiative will provide a platform where professionals can share insights, best practices, and innovative solutions to improve kidney health outcomes.

“Addressing disparities in kidney care is a critical public health challenge,” said Kelelaye Emiru, Vice President of the Center for Professional and Strategic Alliances at NMQF. “Black/African Americans are three times more likely, and Hispanics/Latinos are 1.3 times more likely to experience kidney failure compared to White Americans, according to the National Kidney Foundation. Through the Nephrologists for Equitable Kidney Care initiative, we are uniting nephrologists, healthcare providers, and advocates who are deeply committed to health equity and dedicated to making a real difference in the lives of those disproportionately impacted by kidney disease.”

• The Gap We Aim to Fill

While there are several kidney-focused organizations doing exceptional work, NEKC is uniquely positioned to address specific gaps that are often overlooked.

• Health Equity Focus

NEKC is dedicated exclusively to the intersection of kidney care and health equity. We focus on the social drivers of health and the systemic barriers that contribute to disparities in kidney care, particularly among minoritized and underserved populations.

• Collaboration Across Sectors

NEKC will foster collaboration not just within the nephrology community, but across multiple sectors, including public policy, community health, and patient advocacy. This multidisciplinary approach allows us to tackle complex issues from various angles.

As part of this initiative, NMQF will also establish partnerships with key stakeholders to enhance the pipeline of nephrologists and healthcare professionals dedicated to serving these communities and promote professional excellence for nephrologists championing health equity.

The NMQF invites nephrologists, healthcare professionals, and advocates to join the Nephrologists for Equitable Kidney Care initiative and be a part of this transformative effort to eliminate disparities in kidney care.

For more information about the NEKC initiative or to get involved, please visit http://nephroforequity.org or contact mdsolarte@nmqf.org.

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About the National Minority Quality Forum

Founded in 1998, National Minority Quality Forum (NMQF) is a United States-based, health care research, education and advocacy organization whose mission is to reduce patient risk and advance health equity by assuring optimal care for all. The mission is to reduce patient risk of hospitalizations, emergency room visits, disabilities, and death, while also promoting high-quality, long lives, particularly for the most vulnerable. NMQF utilizes data and research to support and mobilize healthcare organizations, leaders, policymakers, and patients in advocating for optimal care for every individual, especially those in minoritized communities. For more information, please visit http://www.nmqf.org.