Demand for dialysis treatment in the United States has exploded over the past few decades due to the rising prevalence of poor dietary and exercise behaviors. Diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure have had devastating effects on the health and well-being of the public and have led to the creation of hundreds of new dialysis treatment facilities. In order to provide comprehensive and accessible care, administrators have started recruiting thousands of new technicians to perform routine patient care activities. This has resulted in many new employment opportunities for unlicensed allied health personnel who are looking for a career path that has relatively few barriers to entry. Those who choose to pursue this profession can complete their education and training through either an in-house program offered by the employer or through an independent educational institution such as a community college or vocational school that administers a certificate option specific to the specialty. After training has been completed, the technician will typically be required to pass a national certification examination.

1. DIALYSIS TECHNICIAN
Education and Training Options

2. TECHNICIAN CAREER PATH
Experiencing strong growth
Demand for care has increased dramatically
Healthcare companies have built hundreds of new facilities
Administrators are hiring thousands of new technicians
Entry-level position
Very few education and training requirements
Ideal for those who do not want to spend several years in college or completing specialty training

3. ROLE OF THE TECHNICIAN
Unlicensed provider
Works under supervision of nurse or physician
Performs routine patient care activities
Medical history documentation
Record changes in health status
Measure vital signs and fluid fluctuations
Prepare patients for treatment
Monitor treatment period
Provide emotional support
Offer patient education

4. STATE AND FEDERAL REGULATIONS
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS)
States usually adopt federal guidelines
Technicians must have high school diploma or GED
Must complete a formal training program
Must pass a certification exam within 18 months of hire
May complete education and training through in-house instruction
May complete education and training through a local community college or vocational school

5. ENTERING THE PROFESSION
Contact local employers to find out about opportunities
Speak with local colleges about certificate programs
Read about the profession online
Become familiar with legislation with one’s own state
Review federal guidelines and requirements
Actively participate in local and national organizations
Check into certification eligibility requirements

6. CERTIFICATION OPTIONS
Board of Nephrology Examiners Nursing and Technology (BONENT)
Has list of approved training programs
May need to contact them if enrolling in a program not listed
Will usually approve applicant with proper documentation
National Nephrology Certification Organizations (NNCO)
Nephrology Nursing Certification Commission (NNCC)
Generally need documentation of program completion
Proof of high school level education

7. HOME STUDY COURSES
Medical Education Institute (MEI)
Kidney School
Core Curriculum for the Dialysis Technician
National Association of Nephrology Technicians
National Kidney Foundation
American Kidney Fund
Complementary to formal education and training
Often used to prepare for certifications examinations
May be used to meet continuing education requirements

8. RESOURCES
Dialysis Technician School
www.dialysistechniciansalary.org