Many people may not realize that Medicaid coverage includes preventive health services that can help protect kidney health and overall wellness. Routine checkups, vaccines, and health screenings are essential tools for preventing serious health conditions. For people at risk of kidney disease, these services can help detect problems early and support long-term health. Through Medicaid, … [Read more...] about How Medicaid Coverage Supports Kidney Health and Preventive Care
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National Kidney Month: Early Detection Can Save Lives By Laura Kopp, BSN, RN
National Kidney Month: Early Detection Can Save Lives By Laura Kopp, BSN, RN Understanding Your Kidneys March is National Kidney Month, making it the perfect time to talk about two small organs that often go unnoticed until something goes wrong. Your kidneys do a lot: they filter waste and extra fluid from your blood, balance electrolytes and minerals, control blood pressure, and even help … [Read more...] about National Kidney Month: Early Detection Can Save Lives By Laura Kopp, BSN, RN
Meeting People Where They Are: Support for Health Across Michigan
Health doesn’t look the same for everyone, and neither does the path to feeling better. Across Michigan, the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan (NKFM) offers free and low-cost programs designed to meet people where they are. Whether someone is managing a chronic condition, working to prevent disease, or simply trying to feel healthier day to day, our programs focus on access, support, and … [Read more...] about Meeting People Where They Are: Support for Health Across Michigan
Celebrating 70 Years: A Look at NKFM’s Impact Across Programs
2025 marked the 70th anniversary of the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan — seven decades of improving kidney health, expanding prevention efforts, and supporting communities across the state. As we celebrate 70 years, we’re taking a moment to recognize the work happening right now across our programs. These snapshots highlight the communities we serve, the partnerships we’ve built, and the … [Read more...] about Celebrating 70 Years: A Look at NKFM’s Impact Across Programs
Food Access Resources During the SNAP Pause: How NKFM Can Help
Healthy eating plays a major role in preventing and managing kidney disease. SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits will be paused November 1st, and the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan (NKFM) is here to help connect individuals and families with the resources they need to stay healthy. Whether you’re looking for ways to make kidney-friendly meals or need help accessing … [Read more...] about Food Access Resources During the SNAP Pause: How NKFM Can Help
What Is Health Literacy, and Why It Matters for Your Kidney Health
October is Health Literacy Month, a time to recognize how understanding your health information empowers you to take control of your well-being. At the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan (NKFM), we believe knowledge is one of the most powerful tools for prevention and early action, especially when it comes to kidney disease. … [Read more...] about What Is Health Literacy, and Why It Matters for Your Kidney Health
Bright Orange, Big Impact: NKFM’s Community Outreach Team
At health fairs, senior expos, back to school fairs, and other community events, you might see the bright orange tablecloth of the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan and the smiling face of one of our Community Outreach team members. The Community Outreach team acts as ambassadors spreading awareness of kidney disease, its risk factors, way to prevent kidney disease, and NKFM’s programs and … [Read more...] about Bright Orange, Big Impact: NKFM’s Community Outreach Team
August is Make a Will Month
Have you thought about the impact and legacy you will leave behind some day? Crafting a will and considering planned giving allows you to shape the future in a meaningful way. During Make a Will Month, consider leaving a legacy by including the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan (NKFM), in your estate plans. Your legacy gift could be the reason: someone who is newly diagnosed with … [Read more...] about August is Make a Will Month
National Immunization Awareness Month: What You Need to Know
August is National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM), and this is an opportunity to highlight the importance of vaccination for all people. Vaccines are highly effective at preventing diseases, serious complications and death for several illnesses. For families with children, NIAM is an opportunity to ensure that the children are up to date on their vaccines before the start of the school … [Read more...] about National Immunization Awareness Month: What You Need to Know
“Finding Your Way”: A Guide to Navigating Michigan’s Social Systems
When navigating the social safety net feels overwhelming, a clear, accessible guide can make all the difference. That’s exactly why Finding Your Way: A Roadmap to Social Systems and Resources was created. Developed by Shaun Taft, LMSW, MSA, a longtime community organizer and NKFM employee, Finding Your Way is a user-friendly guidebook designed to help individuals, and those who support them, … [Read more...] about “Finding Your Way”: A Guide to Navigating Michigan’s Social Systems
Recognizing the Importance of uACR (urine) Screening
Your kidneys act like filters for your blood. When they start to become damaged, one of the first signs is that small amounts of protein—called albumin—leak into your urine. A simple urine test, called the uACR test (urine albumin‑to‑creatinine ratio), can help detect early signs of kidney damage, especially for people with diabetes or high blood pressure. It's quick, painless, and could make all … [Read more...] about Recognizing the Importance of uACR (urine) Screening
Summer Health Tips for Everybody: Keep Your Kidneys Happy This Season
Summer is the perfect time to soak up the sunshine, enjoy fresh seasonal foods, and get moving — but it's also important to care for your kidneys as temperatures rise. Whether you’re managing a chronic condition or simply looking to stay healthy, these quick tips can help support your overall wellness and kidney health all summer long. 1. Stay Hydrated (But Skip the Sugar) Hot weather means … [Read more...] about Summer Health Tips for Everybody: Keep Your Kidneys Happy This Season