Answers to common kidney care questions

You can start a referral with us right now — you do not have to wait for one from another office. Some insurance plans require a physician referral before a specialist visit and some do not, and our staff will check what your plan needs and help manage the next steps either way. If you are not sure, call our appointments and referrals line at (731) 300-1191. Referring offices may also send records by fax to 731-300-6955.

Please bring your photo ID, insurance card, medication list, and any recent lab results or hospital papers you have. It also helps to bring blood pressure readings from home if you check them. A family member or caregiver is welcome if you want support taking notes.

Your kidney doctor reviews your medical history, blood pressure, medicines, lab results, and any kidney-related symptoms. You will talk about what the results may mean and what next steps make sense for you. The visit is a time to ask questions and make sure you understand your plan.

Most of a first visit is a conversation. We usually talk through your health history, your medicines and supplements, and your blood pressure, and we look at any blood and urine results you already have, because those results are how kidney function is measured. Depending on what your history and results show, your clinician may do a physical exam or ask for additional blood, urine, or imaging tests, and will explain why. An appointment does not automatically mean a procedure; what happens next is based on your needs.

For a routine visit, most people stay in their regular clothes. A sleeve that rolls up or a short-sleeved top makes the blood pressure check easier. If your clinician needs to examine an area that is covered, such as checking your legs for swelling, they will explain what they are looking for first and protect your privacy. If you have any concerns about an exam, tell us. We want you to feel comfortable.

Yes. Many patients bring a spouse, adult child, friend, or caregiver. Kidney care can involve new terms and several steps, so having another listener can be helpful.

Please call us as soon as you know you cannot come. We will help you find another time and may be able to offer the opening to another patient. Calling early helps everyone get care sooner.

We accept many commonly used plans, including Medicare, TennCare Medicaid, commercial insurance, and some Medicare Advantage plans. Plan participation and benefits can change, so please review our insurance page or call us before your visit. Our team can help you understand what information to check with your plan.

Yes. Specialist copays, deductibles, referral rules, and prior authorization rules can vary by plan. Calling ahead can help reduce surprises and give you time to gather anything your plan requires.

Prior authorization means your insurance plan wants to review and approve a service before it happens. This can apply to certain tests, medicines, procedures, or referrals. Our team will explain what information is needed when authorization is part of your plan.

Please call our main line at (731) 300-6155. We may still be able to see you, or we can help you understand what questions to ask your insurance company. Coverage depends on your exact plan and employer group.

Your cost depends on your insurance benefits, deductible, copay, and any referral rules. We can help verify coverage, but your insurance company makes the final decision about patient responsibility. If you have cost questions, call before your appointment so we can guide you.

A nephrologist is a doctor who specializes in kidney health. Nephrologists care for chronic kidney disease, high blood pressure related to the kidneys, electrolyte problems, kidney stones, dialysis care, and transplant-related kidney issues. They also help patients understand lab results such as creatinine and eGFR.

Chronic kidney disease, or CKD, means the kidneys are not filtering blood as well as they should over time. Many people do not feel sick in the early stages. Lab tests, urine tests, and blood pressure checks help show how the kidneys are doing.

In many cases, kidney disease can be slowed with the right care plan. Blood pressure control, diabetes management, medicine review, healthy eating changes, and regular follow-up may all help. Your plan should be personal to your labs, other health conditions, and goals.

No. Kidney disease can be silent for a long time. Some people notice swelling, tiredness, changes in urination, nausea, shortness of breath, or high blood pressure, but labs may show changes before symptoms appear.

eGFR is an estimate of how well your kidneys are filtering blood. It is based on a blood test and other factors. Your nephrologist looks at your eGFR trend over time, not just one number, to understand your kidney health.

No. Many people with CKD never need dialysis, especially when kidney disease is found early and managed closely. Our goal is to help protect kidney function for as long as possible and prepare you only if dialysis becomes necessary.

Dialysis is usually discussed when kidney function is very low or symptoms suggest the kidneys can no longer keep the body in balance. These talks often begin before dialysis is needed so patients have time to learn. Planning early can help avoid rushed decisions.

The two main types are hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis. Hemodialysis filters blood through a machine, often in a dialysis center or sometimes at home. Peritoneal dialysis uses the lining of the belly to help filter waste, usually at home.

When dialysis is needed, your care team can explain options and what each one may mean for your schedule, support system, and health needs. Some patients may be candidates for home dialysis, while others do better with in-center care. The right choice is personal and should be discussed with your nephrology team.

It is reasonable to ask about transplant when kidney disease is advanced or your eGFR is getting low. Asking early gives you time to learn about evaluation, wait lists, and living donation. Your nephrologist can explain whether referral to a transplant center may be appropriate.

No. Kidney transplants are performed at transplant centers. We can help with education, referral coordination, and ongoing kidney care before and after transplant when appropriate.

Some patients receive a kidney from a living donor, such as a family member or friend. Donors must go through careful medical testing to make sure donation is safe for them. A transplant center manages that process.

Yes. A transplanted kidney needs lifelong monitoring, lab checks, and medicines to help protect it. Your transplant center and kidney care team work together to watch for changes and help you stay on track.

Telehealth may be available for some visits when it is safe and appropriate. Some kidney concerns still require an in-person visit, blood pressure check, lab review, or exam. Call us to ask what options fit your situation.

Patients can use the portal to access records, messages, and visit information. The portal is available at epicconnect.org. If you have trouble logging in, call our office and we can point you in the right direction.

The portal can be useful for non-urgent messages and follow-up questions. It should not be used for emergencies or symptoms that need immediate care. If you think you may be having an emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.

Records can be faxed to 731-300-6955. Please include recent labs, imaging, hospital notes, medication lists, and the reason for referral when possible. Complete records help our team prepare for your visit.