Mission Statement

The Renal Research Institute (RRI) is dedicated to advancing therapy options for dialysis patients to provide the highest caliber of care based on advanced clinical technology. The Institute is committed to research and innovation that will lead to improved patient outcomes and quality of life. RRI strives for a compassionate approach to our patients and to fulfill the needs and expectations of our customers. Through efficient application of new clinical therapies and technical innovations, RRI seeks to expand our network of facilities in collaboration with academic centers. We are dedicated to providing comprehensive renal services to providers, regional insurers, and managed care organizations with full recognition of the economic constraint under which we operate. Through the Fresenius/Beth Israel Medical Center partnership and its network of academic facilities, RRI is able to enhance the spectrum of comprehensive renal services by advancing peritoneal and hemodialysis therapies through clinical research and the application of practice guidelines and new technology.     


Organization

Formed in early 1997, as a joint venture between Fresenius Medical Care - North America and Beth Israel Medical Center, RRI is an administratively distinct institution. The institute is a collaborative effort among a selected group of dialysis facilities with strong ties to academic research institutions. This synergy among designated academic research universities, industry, and dialysis clinics is the first of its kind in the field of kidney disease. A research board, with representatives from RRI's academic partners and dialysis facilities, develops and sets priorities for research programs.

RRI's primary goal is to produce measurable improvements in patient outcomes by building on a solid foundation of clinical research in nephrology. RRI will evaluate the development and application of new technology to enhance the quality of patient care.

Another important component involves the application of the NKF-DOQI Clinical Practice Guidelines in all RRI dialysis facilities. In conjunction with this effort, current dialysis practices will be examined to improve their efficiency and to measure the cost-effectiveness of treatment changes.


Operational Principles

  • Nephrology Disease Management
  • Advance the field of dialysis
  • Technology development
  • Participation in research at all levels
  • Application of practice guidelines
  • Development of integrated data systems
  • Quality of life assessment
  • Exercise and rehabilitation programs
  • Extensive quality assurance programs with continuous quality improvement
  • Quantification of comprehensive financial element:
    • Hospital costs
    • Dialysis facility costs
    • Nephrologist and other physician costs
  • Sets quality goals for each facility


Consulting and Administrative Services

RRI offers numerous dialysis related services to physicians, outpatient clinics, and hospitals:

  • Outpatient Dialysis Consulting and Administrative Services
  • Inpatient Acute Nephrology Services
  • Therapeutic Apheresis Administrative Services
  • Facility Planning and Construction