Florida Renal Association Newsletter

President's Message

Greetings!!

I hope this message finds you well and energized for the months ahead! I want to start by giving a huge thank-you to our incredible corporate sponsors. Your ongoing support truly makes everything we do possible — from our educational programs to our advocacy efforts and networking events. We couldn't do it without you, and we're so grateful for your partnership.

To all our new members — welcome to the Florida Renal Association family! We're so glad you've joined us. You're now part of a passionate, supportive community that's dedicated to improving kidney care across our state. We can't wait to get to know you and see the impact you'll make.

And here's some exciting news — we'll be celebrating our 20th Annual Kidney Day in Tallahassee, February 8–10, 2026! This is such a special milestone for the FRA, and we're planning an event full of education, connection, and advocacy. It's always inspiring to come together and raise our collective voice for kidney health, and this year's celebration will be one to remember. Click here to register

Thank you all for the work you do every day to support patients and advance renal care in Florida. I'm so proud to be part of this incredible community and can't wait to see everyone in Tallahassee!

Help Shape Kidney Care in Florida

Submitted by Julie Spears, FRA Board Member & Director of Population Health / Patient Advocate, National Kidney Foundation of Florida

Hello friends,

This season brings an incredible opportunity for the kidney community across Florida. The Florida Renal Association (FRA) continues to bring together clinicians, patients, and partners who share one goal — to strengthen kidney health and make a lasting impact on the lives of those we serve. As we prepare for Kidney Day 2026 and the upcoming legislative session, we're inviting you to be part of shaping what happens next.

The FRA Legislative Committee is working to define our 2026 advocacy priorities, and your input matters more than ever. We're gathering real-world feedback from people who understand the daily challenges of kidney care — the clinicians, social workers, administrators, and patients who see the impact of policy decisions firsthand. We want to know what needs to change to make care easier, more accessible, and more equitable across Florida. Whether it's improving transplant access, addressing transportation barriers, supporting social work licensure, improving medication access, or expanding Food is Medicine initiatives — your perspective helps guide where we focus our efforts.

We're especially interested in hearing what's happening in your region. What barriers do your patients face? What changes would make your work easier or your care stronger? Every idea, story, or observation helps us create a legislative agenda that truly reflects the needs of the people on the ground. You can share your thoughts anytime by emailing contact@floridarenal.org — your voice helps move this work forward.

At the same time, the FRA continues to monitor statewide policy shifts and collaborate closely with leaders like Ron Watson, our state lobbyist, to ensure the kidney community is represented in Tallahassee. Through partnerships with the National Kidney Foundation of Florida, the Renal Health Association, and other healthcare organizations, Florida remains one of only a few states with a dedicated renal association — and that's something we can all be proud of.

We're also working to make this newsletter a true reflection of our statewide community. We'd love to include photos from your events, stories from your clinics, and insights from your teams. If you have something to share — a success story, a patient highlight, or a new initiative in your area — please send it our way at contact@floridarenal.org with the subject line "FRA Newsletter Submission." Your stories are what make this community come alive.

As I've often said, we have one of the most dedicated renal communities in the nation. As we move toward 2026, let's keep showing what's possible when we work together — clinicians, patients, and advocates — to make kidney care stronger across Florida.

Together, we're not just watching change happen — we're building it.

If you're not yet an FRA member, now is the perfect time to get involved. Join our mailing list, participate in upcoming meetings, and lend your voice to statewide advocacy efforts. Every action matters.

Thank you for being part of this growing movement for better kidney care in Florida.

Florida Kidney Disease Updates: Critical Developments Impacting Our Community

Dear Florida Renal Association Members and Colleagues,

As professionals dedicated to improving access and quality of care for Florida's Chronic Kidney Disease patients, we want to keep you informed of significant recent developments affecting kidney care and organ transplantation in our state and nation. These stories underscore the critical importance of our collective work and the need for continued engagement from renal care professionals across Florida.

Local Leadership: Franklin County Sheriff's Transplant Journey Raises Awareness

A powerful local story demonstrates the real-world impact of organ donation and kidney disease awareness. Franklin County Sheriff A.J. Smith is using his personal kidney transplant experience to educate his community about kidney disease prevention, early detection, and the life-saving power of organ donation. His journey—from declining kidney function to successful transplant with his wife as donor—highlights the challenges many of our patients face and the need for increased public awareness.

Read Sheriff Smith's Story →

State Policy Alert: Florida Hospitals Debate Transplant Program Standards

A significant policy debate is unfolding that could reshape organ transplant care delivery across Florida. Major hospitals are challenging proposed state rules governing transplant program licensing, with the central issue being whether quality standards should include minimum procedure volume requirements. This dispute, headed for administrative hearing in December, will affect how transplant programs operate and could impact patient access to care throughout our state.

Learn About the Transplant Rule Debate →

National Reform Initiative: HHS Announces Major Organ Transplant System Overhaul

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has launched comprehensive reforms to the nation's organ procurement system following an investigation that revealed serious safety and ethical concerns. The reforms mandate stricter oversight, enhanced safety protocols, and improved transparency in organ procurement practices. These changes represent the most significant federal intervention in the transplant system in recent years and will affect how organ procurement organizations operate nationwide.

Read the Full HHS Announcement →

Partner Spotlight: National Kidney Foundation of Florida

www.kidneyfla.org

At the Florida Renal Association (FRA), we believe that collaboration drives change. Our mission is to unite physicians, nurses, social workers, dietitians, technicians, administrators, and advocates across Florida to improve the care and quality of life for individuals with kidney disease.

The Florida Renal Association is proud to partner with the National Kidney Foundation of Florida (NKFF) to advance kidney health awareness, expand screening programs, and support patients throughout our state. Through advocacy, education, and community events, NKFF continues to make a measurable difference for Floridians affected by kidney disease—improving early detection, promoting transplant awareness, and helping patients live longer, healthier lives.

Recent Highlights & Upcoming Events

🎉 2025 NKF Surf Fest Success!

The Cocoa Beach event was one for the record books. Thousands came together to honor the legacy of Rich Salick and raise awareness for kidney disease, organ donation, and transplant support. A heartfelt thank-you goes to every sponsor, surfer, volunteer, and supporter who made this year's event possible. Stay tuned for Surf Fest 2026 details!

📅 Fort Lauderdale Kidney Walk - November 15, 2025

Join walkers, teams, and sponsors to help raise awareness for kidney health in South Florida. Every step taken supports patient programs, education, and life-saving initiatives across the state.

📅 Naples Charity Golf Classic - February 2026 at Tiburón Golf Club

This annual day of connection and community benefits NKFF's free kidney screening programs and direct patient assistance. Sponsorships and foursomes are available now.

📅 Emerald Coast Kidney Walk - April 18, 2026 in Santa Rosa Beach

NKFF is making history with this first-ever event, bringing together families, patients, and supporters to promote early detection and build awareness for kidney health along Florida's Emerald Coast.

Programs That Make a Difference

Each NKFF event directly supports programs that improve kidney health across Florida:

• Free statewide kidney health screenings
• Patient emergency and travel assistance
• Community education and prevention initiatives
• Advocacy for early detection and transplant access

To learn more: www.kidneyfla.org

Emergency Preparedness for the 2025 Hurricane Season

Submitted by Bob Loeper, VP Operations Support, Business Continuity/Disaster Response, Fresenius Kidney Care

We are at the peak of the Hurricane season and all dialysis clinics must always be prepared for the unexpected. Some of the main tasks you should be completing at this time include:

• Updating your Facility Emergency Plan to include any changes in your back up plans for potable water and power.
• Update your Facility Emergency Directory to be sure all contacts are correct. Contact your local plumber and electrician and confirm they will be available to service your facility if needed.
• Review your Facility Emergency Plan with the local EoC and/or healthcare coalition so they know who you are, where your clinics are located and the number of patients and staff in your facilities. Review and understand their capabilities and capacities as well as your own.
• Update and verify all patient and staff emergency contact information, request to have an alternate contact of someone who does not live with them. Have hard copies on hand.
• Analog phones are no longer being supported by telephone companies, update your communication plan to include alternate methods of communication such as cell phones, land lines, texting, ham radio and/or satellite phones.
• Prepared patient medical record packets, place in zip lock bags and distribute to all patients now, if not done so already. You may also provide a more recent copy of their records prior to an actual event.
• Display an example of the 3-day renal diet in your lobby and encourage patients to prepare and store their own 3-day diet.
• Document where each patient plans to evacuate. Register them for special needs shelters if applicable. Please note due to COVID, seeking special need shelter for patients should be a last resort.
• Make sure each patient has an alternate transportation support service to dialysis when their regular transportation is not available.
• Tell patients to answer their phones after a disaster, as you will be calling them, and it may not be from their normal clinic phone number.
• All patients should have a dialysis patient wallet card identifying them as being on a dialysis that also includes the name and address of their clinic and nephrologist. These are available on the KCER website.
• Clinics in flood prone areas should have sandless sandbags in the facility and all need-to-know alternate routes to the clinic if local roads flood.
• Facilities should have a hand crank or battery-operated radio with a weather band.
• Prepare a large sign on bright color paper stating, "This Clinic is CLOSED, please contact our Patient Hotline # 800 XXX-XXXX". Have this available to place on an inside window facing towards the front if you need to close your clinic.
• Remember to update your answering machine before closing your clinic.
• Be sure staff know their roles and responsibilities pre and post disaster and if available distribute Authorization or Re-entry Letters for patients and staff to allow travel to the clinic during times of curfew.

Your #1 priority post storm is locating all patients and getting them scheduled for a treatment ASAP. A best practice to open on a Sunday the week before expected impact to get that extra treatment in before the storm, rather than trying to catch up after the storm.

Having an emergency plan is great, but testing your plan is paramount. You should conduct Tabletop Drills to simulate a disaster and activate your Facility Emergency Plan. Staff should know their role and responsibilities, and you should seek to determine if any gaps are found in your Facility Emergency Plan and create action plans to close any gaps. The Facility Emergency Plan also requires annual approval by the facility Governing Body.

⚠️ REMEMBER: 'When a disaster strikes, the time to prepare has passed'

Medicare AEP: Year-Round Options for Kidney Patients

Submitted by Katie Strout, FRA Board Member & Director of Sales, Gold Kidney Health Plan

Each year, from October 15 to December 7, Medicare's Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) provides an important opportunity for beneficiaries to review their current plan, compare new options, and make changes to better meet their health needs. For many people, it's the only time they can make those changes.

For individuals living with certain chronic illnesses, such as chronic kidney disease (CKD) or end-stage renal disease (ESRD), the story is a little different — and potentially much more flexible.

Even though those with kidney disease often qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) that allows them to enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan at any time during the year, AEP remains a valuable opportunity.

Gold Kidney Health Plan offers Medicare Advantage Chronic Special Needs Plans (C-SNP) designed specifically for people with CKD and ESRD. Created by kidney specialists and patient advocates, GKHP offers benefits that go beyond traditional Medicare.

For more information: www.goldkidney.com or email katie.strout@goldkidney.com

Featured Reading from the Kidney Day Committee

Submitted by Abbey Folsom, MS, LDN – Kidney Day Committee Chair
📧 kidneyday@floridarenal.org

As the Florida Renal Association prepares for Kidney Day 2026 in Tallahassee (February 8–10), the Kidney Day Committee is helping keep our community informed with fresh, evidence-based perspectives on renal health and nutrition.

📄 Protein Restriction vs. Ketosis for CKD: Untangling the Controversy

Source: InKidney.com

This article explores the ongoing debate around protein restriction versus ketogenic nutrition for individuals with CKD. It reviews underlying mechanisms, potential benefits, and clinical considerations.

📘 Ketogenic Diets and Kidney Health — What the Evidence Really Shows

Source: Journal of Renal Nutrition

This peer-reviewed publication reviews current evidence surrounding low-carbohydrate, high-fat diets and their impact on kidney function.

For questions or to recommend resources: kidneyday@floridarenal.org

Community Spotlight: Central Florida Kidney Centers

Submitted by Amy Kozsuch, CEO, Central Florida Kidney Centers

At Central Florida Kidney Centers, we are honored to care for some of the bravest patients—our kiddos and their families—who face the ups and downs of kidney disease and treatment with remarkable courage. Their resilience inspires us every day.

A heartfelt thank you to Wilmary Nazario, MSN, MBA, RN, Nurse Manager of CFKC Pediatric Services, and our dedicated Pediatric PD team — Wanda Badillo, BSN, RN, Jorge Caballero, RN, and Leilani Rodriguez — for delivering compassionate, family-centered care that makes such a difference in our young patients' lives.

We also extend our gratitude to Dr. Carlos Ararya, MD, our Pediatric Medical Director, for his steadfast leadership and commitment to advancing exceptional kidney care for children across Central Florida.

FRA in Action Across Florida

The Florida Renal Association was honored to be represented at two major statewide events this month, connecting with professionals and partners advancing kidney health across Florida.

Renal Professional Forum (RPF) – Ron Watson and Codie Pauley presented on FRA's legislative priorities and current advocacy efforts.

Renal Health Association (RHA) – Ron Watson and Amy Kozsuch presented on the mission, history, and statewide initiatives of the Florida Renal Association.

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KIDNEY Collaborative Progress

The Florida Renal Association is proud to recognize the strong partnership underway between the National Kidney Foundation of Florida (NKFF), Bayer, and Humana through the KIDNEY Collaborative—a statewide quality-improvement effort focused on early detection and management of chronic kidney disease (CKD) associated with type 2 diabetes.

Now entering its second year, the collaborative is showing results faster than expected. Participating practices are reporting significant increases in completion rates for urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) testing, leading to earlier identification of kidney decline and more coordinated follow-up between primary care providers and nephrology teams.

The KIDNEY Collaborative meets on the second Wednesday of each month and continues to expand statewide. With the combined support of NKFF, Bayer, and Humana, the project is rapidly becoming a model for proactive, team-based kidney care and early intervention across Florida.

Get Involved with the Florida Renal Association

The Florida Renal Association (FRA) brings together healthcare professionals, advocates, and community partners who share one mission: to improve kidney health and patient outcomes across our state.

If you're passionate about making a difference in the lives of patients with kidney disease, we invite you to get involved. Join a committee, participate in advocacy efforts, contribute to statewide initiatives, or lend your voice to upcoming events.

Contact Us:
🌐 www.floridarenal.org
📧 contact@floridarenal.org

Together, we're advancing kidney care across Florida.