Green nephrology: the role of telemedicine and electronic patient-reported outcomes

Abstract

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a global public health priority. People with CKD experience high morbidity and mortality rates, often associated with multiple long-term health conditions. While the health sector tackles shortfalls across the workforce, increased treatment costs and the subsequent impacts on care delivery, the disproportionate contribution of nephrology to the overall healthcare carbon footprint, caused by high levels of resource usage and waste generation, must be confronted. Opportunities to reduce the environmental impact of kidney care might be possible through the use and evaluation of digital technological solutions; for example, telemedicine and electronic patient reported outcomes (ePROs) can ensure that each patient with CKD receives the care and treatment they require to successfully and sustainably achieve outcomes that matter to them.