A Companion Program for
Pre-Transplant Kidney Patients
For renal insufficiency patients, a unique
program can help you make an informed decision on the option
of kidney transplantation as a treatment method. The Transplant
Companions® program is a tailored initiative designed
to meet the specific information needs of pre-transplant
kidney patients. Formally established in 2003, the program
currently operates in 13 transplant centres across Canada.
The core of Transplant Companions lies
in its interactive workshops and educational materials for
individuals who may be considering a kidney transplant.
The workshops are held at participating transplant centres
and clinics across Canada and cover a wide range of topics
including:
How to prepare
for a kidney transplant
Details on the kidney donation
and transplant process
Details on the kidney donor and recipient selection process
Information on the post-transplant lifestyle changes
Information on post-transplant medications
These small workshops are led by a member
of the hospital or clinic’s transplant team and an
individual who has already had a kidney transplant. Participants
actively discuss renal transplantation issues with other
pre-transplant patients in attendance as well as with the
health care professional facilitating the workshop. They
also hear from a transplant recipient about their personal
kidney transplant experience.
Workshop participants receive “Your
Companion Workbook”, a workbook distributed at the
workshop, containing information on the transplant process,
as well as charts and exercises on preparing for a transplant
and maintaining good health post-surgery.
To date, approximately 2,500 pre-transplant
renal patients have benefited from the Transplant Companions
program. In addition to the workshops, patients also have
access to an informational website, as well as regular newsletters
and communications, helping them keep up to date on the
latest news in kidney transplantation.
To join the Transplant Companions program,
attend a workshop and take advantage of free resources for
pre-transplant kidney patients visit
www.transplantcompanions.ca or call 1-866-446-3030.
