Moving From the Transplant Center to Local Care

Continuing care beyond the transplant center

The transition from the transplant center to a local kidney doctor looks a little different for every patient. The timing depends on your recovery, your transplanted kidney's health, and your transplant center's approach to follow-up care.

It is normal to feel nervous about leaving the transplant center, especially after receiving such close support during the early stages of recovery. For many patients, however, this transition is a positive sign that their transplanted kidney is stable and recovery is progressing well.

Before your care transitions, the transplant center will typically share important information with your local kidney doctor, including:

• Medical records including transplant history and baseline laboratory values

• Recovery history and test results

• Future care plans and monitoring recommendations

Although your day-to-day care may change, your transplant center and local care team continue to work together to help support your kidney health and long-term recovery.

Partnering with your local kidney doctor

Your local kidney doctor, also called a community nephrologist, will become an important partner in your ongoing care after transplant. They will typically handle routine checkups, regular lab work, and long-term monitoring of your kidney health.

Your care may also include specialized monitoring tests recommended by your transplant team, such as AlloSure Kidney. These tests may provide additional information about the health of your transplanted kidney and support ongoing care decisions. Ask your transplant center about how often monitoring tests like AlloSure may be right for you—and make sure to review your monitoring plan with your local or community physician as well.

As you establish care with your community nephrologist, consider bringing a care partner to your first appointment. Having an extra set of ears can help you keep track of important information, ask questions, and feel more confident during the transition.

Clear communication is also important. Make sure your new care team has access to your medical records, medication list, and transplant history, and don't hesitate to ask questions about your care plan or monitoring schedule.