Ann Arbor, Mich. — Chronic kidney disease (CKD) often develops without early symptoms, leaving many individuals unaware they have the condition. Early testing is critical to detecting CKD sooner and connecting patients to timely care.
Because laboratory testing informs nearly 70% of healthcare decisions, consistent testing practices and clear reporting are essential for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
To better understand gaps in recommended testing, the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan (NKFM), in partnership with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS), Joint Venture Hospital Laboratories (JVHL), and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, has released a new White Paper examining laboratory-related barriers to CKD testing across the state.
The report identifies several common challenges impacting testing consistency, including:
- Different terms used for the same tests
- Missing or incomplete test orders
- Labs reporting results in different ways
- Technology limits in some systems
The white paper also outlines actionable steps laboratories can take to improve testing practices. Increasing consistency in testing and reporting can support earlier detection of kidney disease and lead to better patient outcomes.
This white paper has been endorsed by the Michigan Health & Hospital Association (MHA), the Michigan Association of Health Plans (MAHP), the Michigan State Medical Society (MSMS), and the Michigan Primary Care Association (MPCA).
“This work reflects the power of collaboration across healthcare partners in Michigan,” said Mary Wozniak, Program Manager at the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan. “Together, we identified key gaps in testing practices and outlined practical solutions that can make a real difference in early detection and patient care.”
For more information about the white paper, contact: healthsystems@nkfm.org
To read the full white paper, visit the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan’s Healthcare Professionals page at nkfm.org/healthcare-professionals. For resources on raising awareness about kidney disease, visit nkfm.org/areyouthe33.