NKF and Vantive Introduce Second Chance to Raise Awareness of Home Dialysis

The National Kidney Foundation of Malaysia (NKF), in partnership with Vantive, has introduced Second Chance, a community-led initiative aimed at helping Malaysians better understand the treatment options available following a diagnosis of end-stage kidney disease (ESKD).

The initiative combines real-life patient experiences with accessible information on dialysis, including home-based treatment options such as Automated Peritoneal Dialysis (APD).

For many people diagnosed with ESKD, haemodialysis is the treatment option they are most familiar with. Conventional haemodialysis generally involves attending a dialysis centre three times a week, with each treatment session lasting around four hours, in addition to the time required for travelling.

For some patients, the regular schedule can affect how they manage work, family commitments and other aspects of everyday life.

Home-based dialysis offers a different approach for eligible patients. APD uses a machine to perform dialysis overnight while the patient sleeps, allowing treatment to take place at home instead of requiring a visit to a dialysis centre for every session.

Second Chance aims to increase awareness of these options and encourage patients to have informed conversations with their healthcare professionals about the treatment approach that may be appropriate for their individual circumstances.

NKF Chief Executive Officer Choo Kok Ming said the initiative is intended to broaden the conversation around dialysis and help newly diagnosed patients understand that treatment does not necessarily have to dictate every aspect of their daily lives.

He added that sharing real experiences alongside practical information can help patients and caregivers feel more informed when considering their available care options.

Among those sharing his experience through Second Chance is Timothy Wilfred Jepos from Sarawak. Timothy first learned about home dialysis during a counselling session in the ward, where his nephrologist introduced it as an option that could fit around his work and daily responsibilities.

According to Timothy, APD allows him to undergo dialysis at home while sleeping, giving him the opportunity to continue working, spend time with his family and remain involved in the activities that matter to him.

His experience also highlights the importance of support beyond treatment. Through PERKESO’s Disability Management Programme, Timothy received financial and vocational support to help him manage his circumstances.

For eligible patients in Sabah and Sarawak, APD supplies can also be delivered directly to their homes, helping to make home-based dialysis more accessible to those living outside major urban areas.

Second Chance further highlights existing support systems that patients may be eligible to access, including rehabilitation, vocational assistance and relevant social security benefits through PERKESO.

By bringing together patient stories and practical information, the initiative seeks to help patients and caregivers gain a clearer understanding of dialysis options and the support available to them.

For more information, visit mydialysiscompass.com.