If you are eligible for a preemptive kidney transplant, which means you have a kidney condition that is likely to progress to end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and a transplant is recommended to prevent it, you may be able to get ESRD Medicare coverage.
To qualify for ESRD Medicare, you must meet certain criteria, including:
- You have been diagnosed with ESRD or have a kidney condition that is likely to progress to ESRD.
- You are already receiving dialysis or have a functioning transplant kidney.
- You are entitled to or enrolled in Part A of Medicare.
- You are not enrolled in Medicaid or have exhausted your Medicaid benefits.
- You are a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident.
What Is End-Stage Renal Disease?
End-stage renal disease (ESRD) is the final and most severe stage of chronic kidney disease (CKD), where the kidneys have lost nearly all of their ability to function. At this stage, the kidneys are no longer able to filter waste products and fluids from the blood, which can lead to a build-up of toxins in the body and cause serious health problems. ESRD is also known as kidney failure. Symptoms of ESRD include:- Nausea and vomiting
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Itching
- Dry, itchy skin
- Difficulty concentrating
- Swelling in the feet and ankles
- Muscle cramps
- Headaches
- Shortness of breath
- Insomnia