Table 1 Principal models of dialysis care in the Northern territory

Model 1

Urban Satellite Unit

Larger facilities in urban areas, provides maintenance haemodialysis; training and support for self-care therapies.

All patients commence treatment here, default service when other models at capacity.

Model 2

Regional Satellite Unit

Smaller distant facilities, often co-located with regional hospitals to access support services. Offers haemodialysis and some support for self-care patients in local community

Accepts stable, adherent patients: usually a waiting list.

Model 3

Rural/remote Satellite Unit

Small unit distant from hub service, may co-locate with local primary health clinic to access services. Offers haemodialysis and some support for self-care therapies;

Accepts adherent, stable, physically mobile patients.

Model 4

Community based dialysis

Community controlled services providing permanent and respite haemodialysis in small remote facilities within program of social supports.

Patient criteria less restrictive due to social supports.

Model 5

Self-care dialysis

Multi-user facilities in remote areas for independent home haemodialysis. Single-user machines in private residences. Peritoneal dialysis carried out at home.

Patient criteria strict: adherent, clinically stable and trained to be competent and safe.