Perceptions from the edge: Aboriginal and rural Saskatchewan residents living with Chronic Kidney Disease/Chronic Renal Insufficiency

Abstract

Although diabetes and high blood pressure are leading causes of chronic kidney disease, being over age 60 or Aboriginal also increase a person’s risk. Little is known about how the condition affects quality of life, or how well Saskatchewan’s health care system is meeting the needs of people with the disorder. Dr. Pammla Petrucka and her colleagues are seeking the insights of Aboriginal people, an at-risk population that is growing rapidly, and rural residents, who are predominantly older and declining in numbers, about their experiences with chronic kidney disease. This research will consider how people with chronic kidney disease feel about their condition and quality of life, how they use health services, and whether they face barriers in accessing care. The project will also identify the challenges health providers face, and opportunities they see, in meeting the care needs of Aboriginal and rural people with this chronic condition.

Research Team

Pammla Petrucka (Principal Investigator)

Roland Dyck, University of Saskatchewan Medicine (Co-Investigator)

Joanne Kappel, University of Saskatchewan Medicine (Co-Investigator)

Deborah Norton, Regina Qu'Appelle Health Region (Co-Investigator)