Administration of a pediatric dialysis unit: The basics

In the current era of dialysis care, the nephrologist must be prepared to perform multiple functions beyond the delivery of patient care. One potential role that the nephrologist may assume is the medical director of a dialysis facility. The medical director is responsible for the unit functions on several levels. This article will aim to review the basic principles involved in the administration of a dialysis unit (DU), including administrative, regulatory, and fiscal aspects. This review is not meant to be comprehensive in nature, but rather is aimed to introduce the trainee and junior faculty to the nuances of the DU.